One of the UK banding movement's most popular playing figures has announced his retirement after half a century of brass band music making.

BBb bass player Lawrence Eccleston has decided to make the decision after acknowledging that he was unable to give the 100% he has always done due to health issues.

Bloody blast

On a Facebook post he stated: "I don't believe in doing something half-hearted and when I say something, I never ever want to back track.

Based around my very poor health at the moment and some very hard home truths, the love of my banding has dwindled massively. The last 50 years has been a bloody blast though!!"

Admired

Greatly admired for his playing and commitment to whatever band he has played or guested for over the years, he also enjoyed considerable success.

That has included National Championship wins during a five year tenure at Desford, followed by highly enjoyable stints with the likes of Ever Ready and more recently on his return with Staffordshire Band and Desford once more.