One of the rising percussion stars of Midlands banding certainly caught the attention of fans across the world at the recent Bolsover Festival of Brass.

Stunning performance

14 year old Morgan Gallimore took the 'Best Soloist' award from adjudicator Philip Sparke in the Championship Section event, with his stunning performance of 'Helter Skelter' with Blidworth Welfare Band.

Not only did Philip tell Morgan after presenting him with his award that he thought it was a 'fantastic performance', but also described its as 'superb' in his written remarks — comments echoed by countless fans who tuned in for the live broadcast on the internet.

All from memory

His contribution — all from memory — helped Blidworth to a very creditable sixth place finish, whilst Morgan also revealed to 4BR that we had spotted his early potential in an article we had written about him five years ago!

Now, a bit taller and now a very promising triathlon athlete too, Morgan is certainly showing that he has built on that early potential in full.

Shocked

He told 4BR: "I was shocked when they read my name out. I couldn't stop smiling — the feeling was great!"

His parents Kay and Richard Gallimore added: "This was a great achievement for Morgan as he was up against some pretty impressive soloists from other bands. He didn't stop smiling for the rest of the evening!

I was shocked when they read my name out. I couldn't stop smiling — the feeling was great!14 year old Morgan Gallimore

Elite rivals

Blidworth MD, Martin Heartfield added: "I'm delighted to see how one of our youngest members has developed over the years.

To win this prize, beating an elite field of soloists along the way is a true reward for a superb performance on the day from a star of the future."