*
banner

Dufton to Durham for the beat of one big drum

John Redgate is a man on a drum mission as he walks 60 plus miles to help fund raising

March
  All that has been missing is a marching drum...

John Redgate, a player with North Lakes Brass Band in the North of England is currently making his way on his fund raising walking trip from Dufton to Durham — over 60 miles — to help raise funds for the purchase of a marching bass drum for his band.

Over the last few years North Lakes has borrowed one from supportive neighbours but has always wanted to be able to purchase one to proudly display the band's name at local events.

Get a good one

John said: "As any percussionist will tell you, you can't beat a good drum and we're looking to get a good one."

With that in mind John set off on Thursday on his trek — hoping to cover 10 or so miles a day over some pretty daunting terrain, although he say that he will be stopping off at some welcoming tourists stops and a few hostelries to recover.

The response to his efforts has already been brilliant — more than hitting the original target, with aim now to raise as much money as possible.

Good use

As John added: "Any small donation will be a huge help and the drum will get good use with a number of outdoor summer events again this year!"

You can follow John's progress and donate at:
https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/john-redgate

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Ammal Bhatia

4BR Monday interview with Ammal Bhatia

January 12 • We talk to 26-year-old Ammal Bhatia, a Leverhulme Scholar completing his Masters in Conducting at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland who will compete in the NYBBGB Conductor Competition in Tidworth on the weekend.


4BR Podcast

4BR Review podcast — RNCM International Brass Band Festival

January 12 • Iwan Fox and Chris Thomas will be joined by RNCM International Brass Band Festival Artistic Director Dr David Thornton this Wednesday to focus on the forthcoming showcase event in Manchester.


Peter Moore

Moore spotlight in Birmingham, Barcelona and London

January 12 • Peter Moore will be joining forces with various friends and ensembles for a busy January series of performances — including an exciting Trivergence of troms.


Philip Jones

Philip Jones celebration in London

January 12 • Leading student brass ensembles will celebrate the life and legacy of the iconic trumpet player Philip Jones.


Newstead Brass - Brett Baker

Saturday 17 January • St Wilfrid's Church, . Kirkby-in-Ashfield NG17 8LA


The Hepworth Band - New Year Concert

Sunday 25 January • Christ Church, New Mill, Holmfirth HD9 7ER


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Friday 6 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Saturday 7 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: London & Southern Counties Regional Championships

Saturday 21 March • Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ


Otley Brass Association

January 11 • Tenor Trombone Player needed for 6 week holiday cover with Otley Brass Band.. Practice is Tuesday nights 7.30-9.30pm at Otley Courthouse, LS21 3AN


Cambrian Brass

January 11 • We are a friendly, inclusive and hard-working brass band, welcoming players of all ages and abilities. We are particularly keen to fill our Soprano Cornet, Flugelhorn, Tenor Horn, Euphonium and EEb Bass positions.


Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band

January 8 • Following our promotion to the 2nd section we are looking for a percussionist to do a bit of bing bonging on the timps for the regionals in March. We are a lovely band - everyone says so - so please get in touch. Rehearsals Weds from 1930 in Putney.


Ronnie MacNiven

MMus GRSM LRAM
Trombonist, composer, conductor


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd