*
banner

Barra hangs up boots

Dave Barraclough, the last Brassed Off stalwart has finally hung up his Grimey boots.

Grimethorpe
 

Grimethorpe Colliery Band’s 63rd and final concert of the year at Emmanuel Methodist Church, Barnsley saw the retirement of cornet player David Barraclough after 33 years of unbroken service with the band.

Tributes

The tributes were led by Grimethorpe conductor Sandy Smith who told 4BR: "Barra’s astonishing achievement of service with a single top level band in this day and age knows few, if any equals.

To have graced the stage for so long with a band which has always being one of the busiest in the country is truly remarkable."

He added: "He has been the standard bearer for what being a true bandsman is all about. He was always first at the bandroom and last to leave, but let’s not forget that first and foremost you don’t play for Grimethorpe for 33 years without being a terrific player."

He was always first at the bandroom and last to leave, but let’s not forget that first and foremost you don’t play for Grimethorpe for 33 years without being a terrific playerSandy Smith

Barnsley passion

And after a prolonged standing ovation from both band and audience, the last remaining member of the band who played in the movie 'Brassed Off' was presented with parting gifts, including a season ticket for his other passion Barnsley Football Club.

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Cory

Last chord for Cory legends

June 30 • The final notes of a decade of unprecedented success have been delivered by Glyn and Helen Williams at Cory Band.


Hepworth

Report & Result: Red Admiral March & Hymn Tune Contest

June 30 • The wizards of Hepworth pick up yet another march and hymn tune victory as they take the inaugural Red Admiral honours.


Crofton

Result: Wetherby Drovers March & Hymn Tune Contest

June 30 • Crofton Silver drive home with the top prize at Wetherby.


Mnozil

Mnozil Brass booked for Symphony Hall in 2027

June 30 • After their memorable performance in Birmingham on the weekend, over 650 tickets have already been snapped up for their 2027 return.


The Portsmouth Grammar School - Concert by The Black Dyke Band

Saturday 28 June • St Marys Church, Fratton, Portsmouth PO15PA PO15PA


Petworth Town Band - Fete in the Park with Petworth Town Band

Saturday 28 June • Grounds of Petworth Park GU28 9LR


Petworth Town Band - Farnham Brass Band and Petworth Town Band

Saturday 28 June • Farnham Carnival


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band at Billingshurst Carnival

Sunday 29 June • Carnival through Billingshurst and concert at Recreation Ground RH14 9SX


Simon Langton Brass - Deal Memorial Bandstand

Sunday 29 June • The Strand, Walmer, Deal CT14 7DY CT14 7DY


Croy Silver Band

July 1 • Croy Silver Band currently has contest vacancies on Cornet and Percussion, but always welcomes enquiries for any section of the band.


Alder Valley Brass

June 26 • We are looking for BBb bass and soprano cornet players to join our ambitious, busy and sociable 2nd section band (national finalists 2023) with a good blend of concerts, engagements and contests. Rehearsals Mondays and Thursdays 8-10pm in Farnham, Surrey.


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

June 25 • With a varied upcoming programme of events and following on from our successful "Musicals" concert and first ever trip to Saddleworth for Whit Friday, the band requires an Eb Bass player to join our group.


Dr Brett Baker

BSc (Hons), ARCM, PG Dip
Marketing Lead, Denis Wick & Alliance Products; Artist at Michael Rath Instruments


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd