The British Bandsman magazine is celebrating a significant landmark this week as it reaches its 6,000th issue.

Launched in September 1887 by Sam Cope it has been recognised as the world's oldest music magazine by The Guinness Book of World Records, and is now published on-line.

During its history, it has had 13 different editors, many of whom have been influential figures in the banding world, with the current incumbent, Andrew Wainwright proud to join an illustrious line.

Milestone

Commenting on the 6,000th issue, he told 4BR: "When Sam Cope launched what was originally known as 'The British Bandsman — A monthly magazine for bandmasters and members of military and brass bands', it is doubtful he would ever have imagined that 132 years later it would be celebrating this milestone.

I would like to pay tribute to the generations of proprietors, editors, staff and readers who have guided the British Bandsman to where it is today and without whom we would not be celebrating this significant event."

When Sam Cope launched what was originally known as 'The British Bandsman' — it is doubtful he would ever have imagined that 132 years later it would be celebrating this milestoneEditor, Andrew Wainwright

Commemorative issue

The commemorative issue will see a number of recent contributors provide articles, including Tim Mutum, Trevor Austin, John Maines, Nicola Bland, Rodney Newton, Trevor Caffull, Kenny Crookston and Frank Renton. There are also video tributes from a number of well-known figures in the wider banding world.