*
banner

Cheers! Dobcross steward gains ultimate recognition

Customers in the famous Dobcross Band & Social Club will now be able to enjoy a drink in a bar named after the man who will serve it to them...

Drinks
  Whatever you drink — you can now enjoy it in John Holden's bar

John Holden, a stalwart steward and supporter of brass band events at the famous Dobcross Band & Social Club for over four decades, has been honoured after the refurbished bar area of the premises was named after him.

The 65 year old has been a steward at the club since 1984 and has provided countless people with pints, peanuts and good humour ever since.

No retirement

The local Saddleworth Independent newspaper reported on the story in its recent on-line edition, with John revealing that he actually started work helping out way back when he was just 17 years of age.

And even though he has just reached 65 he has no intention of giving up work yet — regularly working 60 hours a week and more.

The Club is now back open once more and with its fresh overhaul, locals, regulars and visitors are already coming back to enjoy the unique banding atmosphere.

He epitomises what the club is all about — welcoming, jovial and most of all an excellent hostClub President

Fitting tribute

The Club President was quoted a saying: "We've experienced a horrendous 15 months in the face of the pandemic and its nice to have something positive to celebrate. John has been a mainstay at the club and this seemed a fitting tribute to his hard work and dedication.

He epitomises what the club is all about — welcoming, jovial and most of all an excellent host."

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Flowers

Flowers stars to inspire next generation

September 16 • The Oxfordshire & District Brass Bands Association will host a special youth workshop with members of Flowers Band — so get along.


Royston

Balsom return to Royston gains BBC coverage

September 16 • Award winning trumpeter recently returned to her brass banding roots as she prepared for her final concert appearance at the Last Night of the Proms.


Red Admiral

Live stream for Red Admiral watching

September 16 • If you can't make it to the Red Admiral Entertainment contest later this month you can sit back an enjoy it at home instead.


BBE Podcast

Brass Band Podcast Season 2: The Next Generation

September 16 • The second season of BBE's popular podcast series returns exploring the themes of the future of brass bands, leadership, and music-making.


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band at Petworth Heritage weekend

Saturday 20 September • Centre of Petworth Town GU28 OAH


Cheltenham Silver Band - Holst Birthday Concert

Saturday 20 September • All Saints Church, All Saints Road, Pittville, Cheltenham GL52 2HG


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Grenadier Guards Big Band

Friday 26 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Brass Bands England - The Brass Band Conference

Saturday 27 September • Redhills Durham Miners Hall, Durham DH1 4BE


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Irish Guards

Thursday 2 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Leicestershire Co-op Band

September 16 • Leicestershire Co-op Band currently have a vacancy for a SOLO HORN player to lead our team. We have an exciting programme of concert and contests for the remainder of 2025 and into 2026. Could you be the player we are looking for to complete our team?


Dobcross Silver Band

September 16 • Currently 3rd Section National Champions and subsequent promotion to SECOND SECTION in 2026, we aim to add another PERCUSSIONIST to our award winning section. Dynamic all rounder preferred. You’ll love it here! Great rehearsals, gigs and socials!


Audley Brass

September 14 • Audley Brass (First Section National Finalists 2025) are seeking a first class PRINCIPAL EUPHONIUM. We have some very exciting events coming up including 5 epic beer festival nights and Wychavon Festival of Brass entertainment contest.


Martyn Evans

BEd (Hons) NABBC member
Conductor, Band Trainer, Teacher, Adjudicator


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd