The baton of the Test Valley Youth Band was passed from Alec Grimsey to Alun Grace at the band’s recent Annual General Meeting.

After two and a half years at the helm, Alec stepped down with a lovely present from young band members of a series of delicious cup-cakes spelling out their heartfelt thanks.

Fantastic

Alec told 4BR: "I have been very touched by such a fantastic send off — it really was very moving. I have enjoyed myself immensely and the young people involved with Test Valley Brass are absolutely brilliant.

We have a wonderful happy, hard working group which has lots of fun. You really couldn’t wish for better young people."

I know I have handed the band over to a very capable pair of hands. The future is very bright for them with the experience and fresh thinking that they will now benefit fromAlec Grimsey

Experience

He added: "I know I have handed the band over to a very capable pair of hands. The future is very bright for them with the experience and fresh thinking that they will now benefit from."

Alun meanwhile said: "I’m very excited to be taking over the band. It is in excellent shape and at a very high standard. We have great times ahead and it’s going to be a lot of fun."