The Reg Vardy Band has extended their thanks to trombone player Richard Walker and the Thoresby Band for their emergency assistance at the recent British Open in Birmingham.

Tricky situation

The North of England champion band found themselves in a tricky situation as regular solo trombone players Chris Bentham found out on the Wednesday before the contest that he would be unable to play in Birmingham.

Stepped in

As a respected player and friend of the band, Richard, stepped in and drove three hours from Nottingham to attend Thursday’s rehearsal before catching up with the band in Birmingham on Friday evening.

Obviously when we realised Chris couldn’t play, it was a massive blow for, but Richard was a superb replacementLaura Jackson, Reg Vary Band

Superb replacement

Reg Vardy’s Laura Jackson told 4BR: "Obviously when we realised Chris couldn’t play, it was a massive blow for, but Richard was a superb replacement and we are very grateful for his commitment at such short notice. We can’t thank him enough."