Stannington Brass Band were up against it at the weekend, what with an erupting volcano, grounded air flights, and a guest soloist in hospital.

However, in true showbiz style, the show — or in this case, their concert in their home village, still went on.

Egypt sub

The concert in Stannington was in danger of being cancelled when the band’s Musical Director, Derek Renshaw, rang to say that he was stuck in Egypt with no flights home for several days.

The band’s bass trombone player and deputy conductor, Andrew Platts saved the day and put the band through their paces.

No stranger to the art of comparing, Andrew entertained the audience with his quips and anecdotes as well as acquitting himself expertly with the baton.

We are indebted to Andrew and John for coming to the rescue at short notice and enabling the concert to go aheadBand Chairman, Peter Mosley

Flugel dep

Meanwhile, at short notice, flugel star John Lee, also stepped into the breach when guest soloist Richard Walker was taken ill.

John delighted the Lomas Hall audience especially as he played a rendition of the local hymn tune 'Stannington'.

Peter Mosley, Band Chairman commented to 4BR: "We are indebted to Andrew and John for coming to the rescue at short notice and enabling the concert to go ahead."