Newtongrange Silver Band trombonist Chris Griffin has been presented with Life Membership of the Scottish Brass Band Association.

Edinburgh-born and raised in Loadhead, Midlothian, Chris joined the MacTaggart Scott Works Band in 1969 where his father Sydney played trombone. His younger brother Keith also joined the band a few years later.

With them he enjoyed many concerts, competitions, local engagements, and several band trips including one to the village of Lindos on the Greek island of Rhodes which he initiated.

Much respected

Chris has also been a much respected player and has won a number of solo prizes including a 'Best Instrumentalist' award at the 2010 Scottish Championships.

His sons Lloyd and Leighton continue the family brass tradition, extending it to five generations, when they joined the newly-formed Loanhead Brass Roots.

In 2012 Chris and Leighton transferred to Newtongrange Silver Band which has gone on to enjoy considerable success including the Senior Trophy at the Spring Festival in Blackpool in 2013.