There was a very special treat for the players of the Longridge Band recently, when an 87 year old local resident conducted his own composition with the band.

Iconic

However, this was no ordinary local brass band lover, but the great Ernest Tomlinson, MBE, who is a patron of the band. He took the opportunity to conduct his iconic ‘Little Serenade’ much to the delight of a full house at a concert in the town’s Civic Hall.

"It was a great pleasure for me," said Ernest, who was awarded the MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours for services to music.

The 87 year old, double Ivor Novello Award winning composer added: "I really enjoyed it and the band played well."

It was a great pleasure for me. I really enjoyed it and the band played wellErnest Tomlinson MBE

Honour

"It was a great honour," said Longridge MD Mark Peacock. "It was a great night all round. The village really gets behind the band and to be conducted by such a superb musician has been a real privilege."

An Olympic-themed evening of music making also saw the arrival the Olympic torch held aloft by rock musician Dave Gilmore.