One of Scotland's most respected bandsmen has been presented with a richly-deserved 50 Year 'Long Service Award' by the Scottish Brass Band Association.

Unbreakable connection

Jim Ferguson of Broxburn & Livingston Band started playing with the then Broxburn Public Band aged 10, in 1949, and although he has taken the occasional short break from playing over the years to concentrate on his successful family business, he has always maintained an unbreakable connection with the organisation.

That has included spells as an administrator as well as cleaner, caterer, baritone player and inspirational teacher — always on hand with his wife May to provide support to the band that he joined alongside his father and brother all those years ago.

Over 60 years

In fact he has notched up over 60 years of banding service, as Band President Bill Smith told 4BR.

"When we totted it up it was well past half a century and more! Jim has been a wonderful servant to the Scottish brass band movement and Broxburn & Livingston in particular.

The pride that was shown when he was presented the award from his grandchildren, Jack, Ruby and Abby at our recent Christmas Concert was amazing. He is a remarkable man — and still a very fine baritone player!"

The pride that was shown when he was presented the award from his grandchildren, Jack, Ruby and Abby at our recent Christmas Concert was amazing. He is a remarkable man — and still a very fine baritone player!Bill Smith

Great deal

He added: "It said a great deal about him that he received messages of congratulations from all over the banding world. Everyone associated with Broxburn & Livingston Band owes him a huge debt of gratitude."