The Black Dyke Band has taken the opportunity of the break in their busy end of year schedule to hold their annual dinner and award evening.

Pondasher

The 'Pondasher Award' chosen by Director of Music, Prof Nicholas Childs, went to percussionist Gareth Hand, who his described as "a wonderfully gifted percussionist who has gone that extra mile for the band this year in everything he has done."

The award was donated by Ian and Jan Thompson — two of the band's most loyal supporters, with Ian himself notching up 30 years of service this year.

Bandsperson of the Year

The prestigious 'Bandsperson of the Year' award voted on by the Black Dyke players themselves to recognise a player's outstanding commitment to the band went to flugel player Stephanie Binns.

Prof Childs added: "Stephanie leads by example for all the players in the band — supremely talented, committed and dedicated. Both Stephanie and Gareth are players that represent what Black Dyke stands for in the very best way possible — and are most deserving of their accolades."