The Third Carrickfergus Band from Northern Ireland has added its congratulations to Des Graham, one of its founding members for his British Empire Medal Award for services to the community in The Queen's Birthday Honours.

Synonymous

Desy, as he is known in banding circles, has been involved with the band as a founder, player, conductor, mentor, teacher and now vice-president since the late 1950's.

He is synonymous with the organization and still leads the Youth Band every Saturday (until the COVID restrictions) with the same incredible energy and dedication despite the fact he just recently celebrated his 80th birthday!

Multiple contributions

A band spokesperson told 4BR: "The award recognises his multiple contributions to the local community through his selfless work with Carrickfergus Literary and Scientific Society, Carrickfergus Music Festival and Carrickfergus Golf Club amongst others.

We all hope Des gets to enjoy a Royal day out to receive the award with his wife Liz and son Peter. It would be perfect if there was some brass band music to accompany the presentation."