*
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    


NYBBGB C

National Children's Band Summer Course concert to be broadcast

September 10 • You can sit back and enjoy the talents of the National Children's Band of Great Britain as their end of course concert from their recent Summer Course in to be broadcast on YouTube this Friday.


Cheltenham

Runners and riders confirmed for Cheltenham

September 10 • The official list of competing bands and their conductors for the 2025 Cheltenham National Finals has been released by Kapitol Promotions.


Linz

European Soloist Competition open for entries

September 10 • If you want to be crowned the 10th European Solo Champion then you need to submit a video entry to be considered for the trip to Linz in 2026.


Youth Champs

Registration now open for Youth Championships

September 10 • If you are a band or ensemble wishing to take part in a fantastic day of music making in Birmingham next year, then sign up now.


Contest: Lower Sections 1-4 National Finals

Saturday 13 September • Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham GL50 4SH


Contest: Lower Sections 1-4 National Finals

Sunday 14 September • Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham. . *Please note as of 24th August 2023 the date is provisional according to Kapitol Promotions website GL50 4SH


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


Delph Band

September 9 • We are a friendly, hardworking North West 2nd Section band based in Saddleworth. Rehearsal nights are Mondays and Wednesdays, 8-10pm at Delph Band Club. We are currently looking to fill the following positions; Tutti Cornet, Percussion and Eb Bass.


Otley Brass Association

September 7 • Front Row Cornet. -. Otley Brass Band are keen to recruit a 5th member for their front row cornets (position negotiable).. . This is an exciting opportunity to join a thriving band of 30+ players under the leadership of our newly appointed MD, Martyn Beecham


wantage silver band

September 6 • Wantage Band (Championship Section) have vacancies for a Bb BASS PLAYER and THIRD CORNET to complete their line up. Plenty of great concerts from now until Christmas with the Welsh Open, L&SC Area, British Open Grand Shield and Whit Friday in 2026.


Chris King

MBA, BMus(Hons), LRSM, AoBBA
Conductor, Arranger, Adjudicator, Compere, Band Trainer


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd