John Barber, a player universally acknowledged as one of the finest exponents of his instrument in the banding movement, recently celebrated 20 years in the role of solo trombone of the Foden's Band.

Milestone

And to mark the milestone, Band President and Professional MD, Bramwell Tovey presented him with framed picture accompanied by quotes from leading conductors associated with the band during his tenure that paid richly deserved tribute to his service and talents.

Fellow long-serving Band Manager and Principal Cornet Mark Wilkinson told 4BR: "Everyone associated with Foden's adds their congratulations to those led by Bramwell Tovey to mark John's milestone. He has and remains a quite superb player."

Everyone associated with Foden's adds their congratulations to those led by Bramwell Tovey to mark John's milestone. He has and remains a quite superb playerMark Wilkinson

Fantastic achievement

He added: "It's also a fantastic achievement of loyalty, commitment and dedication to Foden's and to the banding movement as a whole.

Not only has John been a great asset to the band but he has also shown great leadership in his role as Band Chairman over the past 10 years."