The 165th British Open Championship this weekend in Birmingham will mark a special 50th anniversary appearance for one of the players in the competing bands.

BBb tuba player Roy Batty made his first appearance at the event at the famous King's Hall at Belle Vue in Manchester in 1966 with Grimethorpe Colliery leading Grimethorpe Colliery Band — and this year he will doff his cap towards the adjudicator's box half a century later with Carlton Main Frickley Colliery.

Four victories

Roy has been fortunate to taste victory on no less than four occasions — in 1967, 1969, 1984 and 1991, and hopes to add to that number before he contemplates hanging up his mouthpiece.

Looking back on his British Open career, he recalled those famous days at Belle Vue: "At that time, of course, there were no percussionists on the stage and the band could just about fit in the boxing ring, with the audience right up behind the bass section,"he said. "The atmosphere was incredible!"

No feeling like it

However, he still hasn't lost that thrill — even on the much wider expanses of the Symphony Hall stage. "Nothing beats the feeling you get walking onto a British Open stage — especially such as this year when the place is sold out. It's fantastic that the contest continues to attract such a worldwide audience and the very best bands."

He added: "I've been very fortunate to have experienced success with the bands I've played for such as Grimethorpe, Fairey and Carlton Main and I hope to taste a bit of winner's champagne at least once again before I retire."

Nothing beats the feeling you get walking onto a British Open stage — especially such as this year when the place is sold outRoy Batty

Amazing bandsman

A spokesperson for Carlton Main added: "Roy is an amazing bandsman. What a connection he has with the contest, and we all hope he gets his own round of applause after we perform — and something to celebrate with a little later in the day!"