Philip Biggs and Richard Franklin have announced that the recipient of the 2017 All England Masters Dedicated Service Award is to be Major George Whittingham.

The presentation will be made by David Read in a ceremony before the announcement of the results of the Championship at The Lighthouse Theatre, Kettering on Sunday 28th May.

Outstanding service

The Dedicated Service Award was inaugurated in 1993 to honour and recognise outstanding service and achievement in the field of brass bands. Over those years the organisers have received many nominations for the Award from people both in the UK and abroad resulting in its presentation annually to a deserving recipient.

Major George Whittingham was a member of Carlton Main Frickley Colliery Band, and went on to a member and Deputy Bandmaster of The International Staff Band of The Salvation Army and Bandmaster of the Upper Norwood Band and the South London Fellowship Band

Major George Whittingham was a member of Carlton Main Frickley Colliery Band, and went on to a member and Deputy Bandmaster of The International Staff Band of The Salvation Army4BR

Massive contribution

Commenting on the 2017 Award, Philip Biggs told 4BR: "George has made a massive contribution to the world of brass as a player, conductor and advocate for brass bands and is a most worthy recipient of the All England Masters Dedicated Service Award."