Congratulations have come from across the Scottish brass band community for Annan Town Band's Andrew Henderson on receiving his Lifetime Achievement Award from the Scottish Brass Band Association.

The trombonist was presented with the accolade at the band's recent annual concert in Dumfries in recognition of his exceptional commitment spanning seven decades.

Lifetime commitment

Andrew started playing aged 12 and in addition to his love of brass bands is a lifelong jazz fan too. He joined Wellesley Colliery Band and was part of its Second Section winning performance at the National Finals in 1966. Stints at Dumfries Town and Lochgelly Band followed before joining Annan in 1993, serving both as a player, occasional conductor and chairperson.

During his time the band has represented Scotland at the National Finals on eight occasions as well as the European Championships in Switzerland.

He has also contributed greatly to the musical communities in Dumfries and Galloway as an active member of Riverside Jazz Band, the Solway Sinfonia Orchestra, and numerous other jazz and big bands.

We are hugely grateful to Andrew for his years of service and leadership and delighted that SBBA has recognised his outstanding contribution to Scottish brass bandingAnnan Band

Hugely grateful

Speaking about his remarkable contribution, Annan Band secretary Samantha Bryden said: "We are hugely grateful to Andrew for his years of service and leadership and delighted that SBBA has recognised his outstanding contribution to Scottish brass banding.

We hope he continues as a playing member for many more years to come."