North West Area champion Foden's, returned from their summer break with a concert alongside Big Band singer Matt Ford at the picturesque setting of Gawsworth Hall in Macclesfield.

Part of the venue's 'Summer Concert Series', it attracted a capacity audience of over 800 people who were treated to a programme entitled 'Salute to Sinatra and the Swing Legends' — one which will become part of the duo's high profile concert partnerships over the coming year.

Tribute

Prior to the performance a tribute was paid to Vice-President Stephen Sebire MBE who recently passed away. Mr Sebire was a staunch supporter of Foden's for over 30 years and was instrumental in helping the band secure sponsorship from the Britannia Building Society.

Reflecting on the return to action, trombonist John Barber told 4BR: "It was once again a huge pleasure to perform with Matt at a fantastic venue to such an appreciative audience."

The Matt Ford concerts are attracting new audience to hear us play and the off shoot has seen more and more concert promoters getting in touch to book usJohn Barber

New opportunities

John also revealed that the success of the partnership which has already seen the release of an acclaimed CD, the duo has been booked by a number of other concert promoters over the coming 12 months.

"It's been a great boost to the profile of the band,"he said. "The Matt Ford concerts are attracting new audience to hear us play and the off shoot has seen more and more concert promoters getting in touch to book us."