Only a matter of days before the National Finals, European champions Cory were rocked with the news that star percussionist Gavin Pritchard might not be able to take to the stage at the Royal Albert Hall.

Twinge

Gavin felt a twinge in both his knees during a recent gym session, but to his horror found that by the time he had got home he was unable to exert any pressure on either of his knees while bending.

Within hours he was having trouble even standing, and so an emergency trip was organised to get him to A&E where after an examination he was told to take complete bed rest and given extra strength medication.

MRI scan

With no improvement, Gavin was quickly referred for an emergency MRI scan and was given the bad news that it looked like he might have seriously damaged the cartilage or tendons in both knees and that it would be very doubtful that he would be fit to play for quite some time.

Painful

However, the resilient percussionist has made sure that despite his difficulties he will take to the stage with Cory on the weekend – even if he will be making a rather slow and painful entrance!

Gavin told 4BR: "The MRI scan was one of the most terrifying experiences of my life, but then again, anything that involves a 'panic button' is never good news!

Being told that I was unable to play percussion in my current state was a double blow as I had been invited for a trial with the Calgary Philharmonic, which I have had to cancel.

Let’s just hope I can counter the bad news with some great news at the Royal Albert Hall on Saturday. It will be worth the pain!"

I'm really hopeful to play as much as I can, and with a bit of help I think we have come up with a solution as long as my knees hold out and I don’t drop anything on the floor!Gavin Pritchard

Re-scoring

After re-scoring the percussion parts with MD Bob Childs, Gavin hopes that they have come up with a solution so that he can play his part without having to engage in his usual fleet footed run around at the back of the band.

Gavin added: "I'm really hopeful to play as much as I can, and with a bit of help I think we have come up with a solution as long as my knees hold out and I don’t drop anything on the floor!"