*
banner

Harrison ends his dream at Blackburn

Blackburn & Darwen Band has said a fond retirement farewell to stalwart member Colin Harrison.

Blackburn
  Colin has been a stalwart of the band for over 40 years

The Blackburn & Darwen Band will soon bid a heartfelt farewell to one of its most devoted members, Colin Harrison.

Colin recently announced his intention to retire after 40 years and more of dedicated service to the band, serving in multiple roles, including contest secretary and librarian.

After joining in the early 1980s alongside his daughter Donna, Colin continued to be an integral member of the organisation in any role he was asked to undertake. With the unwavering support of his wife, Carol the passion for the band invariably saw his living room filled with music ready to be sorted and returned to the library.

Constant

A band spokesperson told 4BR: "Colin has witnessed the band's evolution, including moves to several new band rooms, and has been a constant presence throughout.

His loyalty and hard work have earned him huge respect and admiration from people who describe him as not just a colleague but a dear friend. He has been the backbone of this band for so many years which made a lasting impact on all of us. He will be sorely missed."

Cake surprise

The band gave Colin a surprise at their recent annual awards evening when his daughter and son-in-law arrived to witness his special moment. He is now a proud honorary member.

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    


Easher Austin

Triomphale world premiere at National Children's Band concert

July 31 • 14 year old Easher Austin's 'Marche Triomphale' is to be given its world premiere by the National Children's Band of Great Britain on Friday — with a few tickets left to hear it.


Newstead

Talented Blythe spirit takes principal lead at Newstead

July 31 • Noah Blythe has been appointed the new principal cornet at Newstead Brass.


Radio

Radio: Touch of Brass

July 31 • From the Underworld to Plymouth Hoe and more with Martin Upfold and Julie Hedge this weekend.


wobplay

New additions to Wobplay releases

July 30 • A premiere release from the International Staff Band is joined by classic Cory, memories of the Masters and and Edward Gregson greatest hits.


Haverhill Silver Band - A Nightingale Sang... (an evening concert)

Saturday 2 August • Foakes Hall, Dunmow CM6 1DG


The Lindley Band - Parp and a Pint

Wednesday 6 August • 14a Holly Bank Road. Lindley. Huddersfield . West Yorkshire HD3 3 JE


Haverhill Silver Band - East Anglian Beer & Cider Festival

Sunday 24 August • St Edmundsbury Cathedral, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1QX


Haverhill Silver Band - Concert in Saffron Hall

Wednesday 27 August • Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4UH


Uckfield Concert Brass - Eastbourne Bandstand 1812 Concert

Wednesday 27 August • Eastbourne Bandstand, Lower Grand Parade, Eastbourne. BN21 3AD


Hathersage Band

July 30 • FRONT ROW CORNET (position negotiable). Hathersage Brass Band is a thriving, non-contesting community band. We enjoy our music making, play a wide variety of music and have a good gig schedule. Are you the right person to join our happy band?


Alder Valley Brass

July 30 • We are looking for a front row cornet player to join our ambitious, busy and sociable 2nd section band (national finalists 2023). We have a good blend of concerts, engagements and contests. Rehearsals Mondays and Thursdays 8-10pm in Farnham, Surrey


Cambrian Brass

July 30 • Heading to Aberystwyth University this September? . Join us on Friday evenings, just a short walk from campus, and be part of a growing band with exciting plans for the year ahead!


Craig Roberts

BA (Hons), MA
Conductor / Adjudicator


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd