The All England Masters International Championship has announced that Ray Sykes MBE, the stalwart Carlton Main Frickley Colliery tuba player and band administrator, will receive this year’s Masters Dedicated Service Award.

The Award will be presented at the conclusion of the All England Masters International Championship which takes place at the Lighthouse Theatre, Kettering on Sunday 30th May.

What he has achieved as a player, bandsman, chairman and role model for his band is almost impossible to measure. Ray is very much a one-offPhilip Biggs

One off

Philip Biggs told 4BR: "Ray is a shining example to us all — a true bandsman. He has stuck by his band, Carlton Main Frickley Colliery through thick and thin, working tirelessly. What he has achieved as a player, bandsman, chairman and role model for his band is almost impossible to measure. Ray is very much a one-off."

Tickets for both the Championship and Gala Concert are available from the Lighthouse Theatre Box Office, telephone 01536 414141.