Members, supporters and guests of the Third Carrickfergus Band recently gathered at the local Loughshore Hotel to mark the retirement of their conductor of over 30 years Desy Graham.

After a drinks reception and dinner there were speeches from numerous band members which showed the universal esteem Desy is held within the brass band movement, not just locally, but throughout the banding world — shown by the numerous messages of congratulations and thanks.

Painting

A spokesperson told 4BR: "The band presented Desy with a commission from local artist Glynis Burns, showing him conducting the band along with some of his cherished memories from the past 30 years.

He was also presented with a set of binoculars which presumably he will use to look at the painting from his rather spacious living room!"

Essence of the man

They added: "To say that Desy was just the conductor of the band for 30 years really does not capture the essence of the man.

As a founder member of the old 3rd BB band Desy has been a player, mentor, marriage guidance councillor, bank manager, surrogate parent, therapist and golf coach to a lot of young people who have passed through the ranks of the band!

Furthermore he was also librarian, equipment officer and even repaired the instruments when required. To cap it all he managed to have a remarkable success rate in contests and the band was voted Northern Ireland Band of the Year on a number of occasions."

As a founder member of the old 3rd BB band Desy has been a player, mentor, marriage guidance councillor, bank manager, surrogate parent, therapist and golf coach to a lot of young people who have passed through the ranks of the band!spokesperson

Wonderful wife

The band also paid their thanks to Desy's wife Liz, who has been a remarkable support to him over the years.

The spokesperson concluded: "Let's hope Desy and Liz have a long and healthy retirement together. They have certainly earned it — and many young people will be eternally grateful for their support over many years."