Whitworth Vale & Healey Band has bid a sad farewell to one of its longest serving members, as bass player John Dawson finally called time on 34 years of commitment and dedication.

John joined the band in 1982 to play at the National Championships after successful spells at Hollingworth, Irlam and Orwell Forge Bands.

Relocated

However, since his retirement John has relocated from Salford to Cumbria and the 200 mile round trip to band is now just beyond him.

He counts his own banding highlight as winning the North West Area Second Section in 2013, although it would appear he can't escape the pull of a brass band, and has already been along to the local band Burnside to help out.

Moped

Band spokesperson Aaron Wolfe told 4BR: "John has very rarely missed rehearsals, sometimes battling through terrible weather to get up to band — and for a period of time all this on a moped!

He will be missed by everyone. He has the nickname 'My Mate' for a very good reason, as he is what the brass band movement is all about — good honest hard work and dedication to a band."

He has the nickname 'My Mate' for a very good reason, as he is what the brass band movement is all about — good honest hard work and dedication to a bandBand spokesperson Aaron Wolfe

Join the celebration

Aaron added: "Everyone at Whitworth Vale & Healey would like to wish John all the best for his retirement and he knows he is welcome back anytime. Anyone who played in the band with John is invited to celebrate his retirement with us at Whitworth Band Club on Friday 30th September."