Woodfalls Band has said a fond farewell and thanks to stalwart cornet player Brian Easterbrook.

Brian, known to everyone as Sam, joined Woodfalls in 1974 and served with distinction for over 40 years, many as a hard working and dedicated secretary.

Wonderful contribution

Band Chairman, Paul Street told 4BR: "During Sam's tenure as secretary Sam worked tirelessly securing long-term sponsorship and successfully bidding for numerous grants. We will always be grateful for his wonderful contribution."

Dr Robert Childs, Woodfalls MD added: "As well as raising thousands of pounds for the organisation, Sam has been a loyal and dedicated bandsman making a real difference playing cornet on the back row. I wish him well with his new musical ventures."

As well as raising thousands of pounds for the organisation, Sam has been a loyal and dedicated bandsman making a real difference playing cornet on the back row. I wish him well with his new musical venturesDr Robert Childs

Difficult decision

For Brian, the decision has been a difficult one. "Woodfalls Band has been a big part of my musical life for the past 40 years or so. It's been a very difficult decision to leave to join local rivals Hyde where I have several family connections."

Sam's final appearance with Woodfalls was a joint concert with Southampton Youth Band a few weeks ago, raising funds for the youth band's trip to Spain.