Actor Jim Carter, best known as the servant Mr Carson in the television and film series 'Downton Abbey', made a cameo return to brass banding with the Melton Band on the weekend in what was a link to another of his famous roles as the irascible euphonium player Harry, in the film 'Brassed Off'.

With both the band and himself appearing at the Nevill Holt Festival of Arts in Leicestershire, it proved to be too good an opportunity to miss as Melton gave an open air performance under MD Tony Rifugiato.

He generously gave up the baton for the actor who led them through the march 'Barnard Castle'.

Worldwide plug

The band's appearance had already gained a worldwide plug, as one of their members is Jonathan Agnew (who was also playing on the day), the well known cricket broadcaster and second euphonium, who ensured that people knew about the band's appearance with an announcement made on the coverage of the recent England versus New Zealand test match at Lords.

Thrilled

The band stated: "Today we were thrilled to have Hollywood actor and Brassed Off star, Jim Carter, conduct 'Barnard Castle' for us at the Nevill Holt Festival!"

You can enjoy the performance at: https://www.facebook.com/themeltonband/