The joint forces of Avonbank Band and Stour Concert Brass recently held a joint concert to raise funds for the Tracey Sollis Leukaemia Research Trust.

Funds

The concert at Bengeworth Church in Evesham also saw soloist Carol Lane perform on Tracey's tenor horn, which had remained unplayed since her death. Over £600 was raised at an event attended by local dignitaries, friends, family and band supporters.

The evening also proved to be a special one as people fondly remembered two of their former players connected with the charity — Tracy who played horn prior to being diagnosed with leukaemia, and David Turner, who had played trombone and was a Trustee of the charity before passing away last year.

Special moment

Avonbank's Carole Lane provided a very special moment when she performed her solo on the instrument that had been kept unplayed in its case for the past 21 years. After some minor repairs thanks to Musical Director, Nick Smith, it was recently returned to pristine playing condition.

Carole did Tracy proud with a stunning performance. It was marvellous and very emotional to hear it played againSue Sollis

Proud

Tracy's mother, Sue Sollis told 4BR: "Carole did Tracy proud with a stunning performance. It was marvellous and very emotional to hear it played again.

It was a brilliant venue and the standard of performance from both bands was exceptional. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the event will continue annually. It's a golden opportunity for locals to hear the best of brass."