The announcement has recently been made by Kapitol Promotions that the test pieces for the forth coming UK National Brass Band Finals are as follows:   

It was announced that on Sunday, February 3, Stuart Fawcett passed away after a short illness. He was 76.

Stuart has been a stalwart in the brass band movement for over 65 years, particularly in the West Yorkshire area.

In this photograph taken in 2010 (courtesy of 4barsrest) shows Roy chatting with James Shepherd at the North West Regional Finals.

I have only just heard that the highly respected soprano cornet player, adjudicator and band trainer has sadly passed away.  I will be featuring solos and band performances that featured Roy in Sunday Bandstand next week. A few years ago I wrote a story about Roy's life in brass bands. I have made this story available once agin to remind us all what a talented player Roy was for so many years at the highest level of brass banding. Please read the story which I wrote in conjunction with Roy and the following is that story reprinted and unedited.

The death has been announced of the outstanding trombone player, Derek Southcott, aged 72. He passed away on 21st October.  The funeral will be at Beetham Crematoriam, Milnthorpe LA7 7BQ on Wednesday November 7th at  2pm