Congratulations from across the banding world will be received by Adrienne Howell, a founder of the Mere Manor Youth Band in Wiltshire and Life President of the Wessex Brass Band Association, who has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the New Year's Honours List.

Fabulous lady

Adrienne was also the conductor of Mere Manor Youth Band for a number of years following its formation and over the years has been involved in numerous community organisations, for much of the time alongside her late husband Bernard.

Described as a 'fabulous lady' by those who know her, she was awarded the British Empire Medal for services to the community in Mere, Hampshire.