Almost 50 years of outstanding service by Alex Sheridan to the Coalburn Silver Band organisation has been marked by the presentation of honorary life membership of the Scottish Brass Band Association.

Service and commitment

Alex began playing cornet as a 16-year-old and joined Coalburn in 1977. Within a year he was on principal cornet, a position he held for many years.

In addition to playing both on cornet and flugel, he has also served on the band's committee for the past 40 years, notably as treasurer, a role in which he drove through several fundraising ventures, including the formation of a 100 Club, formed nearly 20 years ago which has raised in excess of £40,000.

An integral part of the band's rejuvenation over the last two decades, he was made an honorary life member and has mentored countless young instrumentalists.

He remains an ever-present figure, sitting on Bronze and Intermediate Bands.

He is a constant encouragement through the good and challenging times and never wavering on his will. Ever bands should have a Alex Sheridan — and we are lucky he is ours!Coalburn Silver Band

Exceptional

Speaking about the well-deserved award, Coalburn Silver MD Gareth Bowman told 4BR: "Alex is what banding is all about — exceptional commitment to the organisation as a player, administrator and supporter.

He is a constant encouragement through the good and challenging times and never wavering on his will. Ever bands should have a Alex Sheridan — and we are lucky he is ours!"

Alex's SBBA honorary membership award was presented by Coalburn President Alan Court at a recent concert.