With only a day to go before the National Finals at the Royal Albert Hall, Flowers solo baritone Carolyn Chandler, is facing a race against time to be fighting fit to perform.

Back problem

The long serving member's has suffered a back problem that has meant she has been unable to stand or sit, let alone travel to London and play.

Massive blow

Band Manager Lee Downie commented to 4BR: "It’s a massive blow for us, as there is a solo and second baritone cadenza in the piece. The new seven day rule has not made matters any easier, as we did not have anyone on the books that could have helped us out, so we face the possibility of playing without a solo baritone.

We are gutted for Carolyn as we wanted her to leave at the very top of banding!"

The new seven day rule has not made matters any easier, as we did not have anyone on the books that could have helped us out, so we face the possibility of playing without a solo baritoneBand Manager, Lee Downie

Last contest

Carolyn is understandably upset at the prospect of missing the finals, as it would have been her last contest with the band as she prepares to take up a new instrument.

She has always wanted to play trombone in a big band and now feels the time is right to make the move. Carolyn is currently the longest serving member of the Flowers Band and after 28 years service.

Speedy recovery

Lee Downie added: "We wish Carolyn a speedy recovery and very much hope that she will be fit to play at the weekend. We would also like to thank her most sincerely for all the dedication, loyalty and commitment she has shown to Flowers Band over many, many years."