The Leyland Band rounded off 2023 by presenting their annual awards at their final concert appearance.

Congratulations went to Rebecca Doyle and Andrew Blackledge for what were described as their "incredible contributions", with Rebecca presented with the 'Player of the Year' and Andrew receiving the Mottershead Shield for his outstanding contribution.

Deserved awards

A spokesperson said: "Rebecca has been a truly amazing player, who consistently delivers performances of the very highest quality on solo horn. She has performed mesmerising solos at many concerts this year and has (as ever) been brilliant on the contest stage."

They added: "Andrew's award is richly deserved, after a year that has seen him doing all kinds of behind-the-scenes work to keep the band running smoothly.

He has played any cornet seat asked of him at any given notice and has also done everything from keeping the finances in check to driving the band van hundreds of miles. Bands couldn't operate without team players like him."