Derwent Brass has bid a fond farewell to two of its longest serving players.

Due to heavily increased work and other home responsibilities Neil Riddle (Eb Tuba) and partner Madeline Eley (second baritone) have both had to leave the Derbyshire based band.

Difficult decision

Neil told 4BR: “It was a very difficult decision to leave the band. I have been with Derwent since 1996 and Madeline since 2001, and we are both extremely proud to see it evolve into the organisation it is today.

We have made a lot of friends here and take away a lot of memories. Of course we will be staying in touch and look forward to following the band’s successes in the future.”

Not only were Neil and Madeline talented players, but model bandsmenDerwent Brass

Greatly missed

A band spokesperson replied: “Not only were Neil and Madeline talented players, but model bandsmen. Neil was also the Band Manager as a well as a former secretary and treasurer, and Madeline, a fine librarian.

Together they would regularly sort out the logistics for band events, played a vital role in securing the band’s rehearsal facility, and produced the ‘Friends of Derwent Brass’ newsletter and much more. They will be greatly missed.”