Hugh Stephenson of Spennymoor Town Band has been honoured for his outstanding service to the community and particularly to brass bands in the North East of England.

At a recent ceremony Hugh (above) was presented with a ‘Scroll of Honour’ by the Mayor of Spennymoor Town Council.

Prolific

Councillor Geoff O'Hehir, who told the assembled audience: “Hugh is a big personality within the Band and is a prolific fundraiser for many brass bands and community groups in the region."

In fact Hugh has helped to raise over £190,000 in the last 25 years for local and regional community groups, and predominately brass bands, including £5000 this year to secure the financial future of the Durham County Brass Band Association.

Brass banding plays a big part in my life and the fundraising I do I treat as a hobbyHugh Stephenson

40 years or more

Hugh has been involved in banding in the North East for over 40 years, 31 with Spennymoor Town, of which he was secretary for 21 years.

Hugh added: “Brass banding plays a big part in my life and the fundraising I do I treat as a hobby."