The popular Morecambe Brass Band have received recognition in a national competition, as their regular conductor was performing duties at the funeral of the Queen.
The band competed at the National Brass Band Finals of Great Britain at Cheltenham, and were placed third out of 16 national bands that qualified for the final in the fourth section. The band has already been promoted to the third section for next year and are looking forward to playing at a higher level again.
The third place was even more remarkable as at the last-minute normal conductor, Andrew Porter, was called away to play a major role at the Queen’s state funeral.
Andrew said: “For those that don't know I was heavily involved in the funeral – I shaped the musical plans for it four years ago. I had to lead my Army Brass Band and the street liners on Whitehall and Horse Guards into position and then disperse them afterwards. In the midst of it all I had to deliver the most important – and longest ever – salutes.
“It was a truly amazing, poignant and historic event to be a part of. Like my preparation of the band up to the Nationals and my steadfastness in London, I hope I did you all and the local area proud.”
David Johnston stepped in to conduct the band for the finals.
In a statement, the band said: ‘’We are very proud at Morecambe Band for why Andrew wasn't available.
‘’We were lucky that David Johnston stepped in to conduct the band and our thanks go to David. David spent just two hours with the band at a rehearsal just a few days before the contest and also a very short practice in the morning before we competed.
‘’Without the hard work and dedication over the last few months by Andrew and Carol Porter and the players, we would not have been able to achieve this 3rd place result.
‘’If you would like to see and hear the band, our next concert, is at The Platform, Morecambe, 12th November at 2:30 in the afternoon.’’
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