Enfield Citadel Band recently helped James Williams MBE celebrate his 90th birthday.

Service

Bandmaster, Jonathon Corry told 4BR: "Not only did we celebrate a wonderful birthday, but we also celebrated the 70 years of remarkable service of James Williams to the band at Tottenham/Enfield."

James joined Tottenham Citadel in 1944 as a renowned cornet soloist, and often featured on many of their recordings. His 1957 recording of Leidzen's cornet solo 'Happy All the Day' is still regarded by critics and fans all over the world as the definitive version.

Finest ever

During his tenure as Bandmaster, he led the band through many difficult patches, including one where nearly half of his players relocated to Canada! He spent the following years rebuilding the band into what was regarded as one of the finest ever.

At the recent celebration, the current band were able to meet up with former bandsmen and brass band personalities such as Keith Hutchinson, Richard Martin, Peter Wise, Rodney Newton, Ralph Brill and Martin Tiplady to share in his remarkable milestone.

Worldwide greetings

Greetings from around the world as well as personal greetings from Malcolm Hynd, General Shaw Clifton (rtd.), Dr Stephen Cobb, Lt.Col. Dr Ray Steadman-Allen, Jonathon Corry and a large number of video and written greetings were introduced by James's daughter Verena.

Not only did we celebrate a wonderful birthday, but we also celebrated the 70 years of remarkable service of James Williams to the band at Tottenham/EnfieldBandmaster, Jonathon Corry

Huge respect

Those within secular contesting circles will know James Williams for his prowess as an adjudicator, having gained huge respect for his musical judgements at the highest level possible on several occasions both at the All England Masters and British Open.