Flixton Band stalwart Paul Thomason received a wonderful surprise at the recent Buxton Brass Band Festival, where he was presented with a deserved 'Long Service Award'.

Paul has undertaken just about every role possible with the band over the years, as well as being a talented player — and for the past decade has been the Band Manager.

He has seen ups and downs and conductors and players come and go, but his dedication and commitment has enabled Flixton to maintain its position as a respected band in the North West.

Unsung hero

A band spokesperson told 4BR: "Paul is one of the unsung heroes of the banding movement — dedicated, committed and passionate about his banding and the bands he been associated with.

He's played Eb and Bb tuba as well as baritone and played under some of the great brass band conductors from Eric Ball to Geoffrey Brand."

Paul is one of the unsung heroes of the banding movement — dedicated, committed and passionate about his banding and the bands he been associated withBand spokesperson

Driving force

They added: "Since joining in 1992 Paul has shared the band's journey between the Second to Championship Section, a tour to Denmark and visits to the National Finals in 2017 and 2018. He was the driving force behind finding a new home for us in the heart of Flixton in 2016.

He was also instrumental in establishing the Flixton Community Band in 2013 which has introduced many people in the local area to the joy of learning a musical instrument and continues thrive under Paul's support."