4BR has been informed of the death of the brass band radio presenter Chris Helme. He passed away following illness on Thursday 24th April.

Sunday Bandstand

His long running programme Sunday Bandstand which started in 2007 was enjoyed by listeners across the banding world. With its wide-ranging repertoire, it was broadcast on a number of UK and overseas radio stations as well as over the internet.

A former police officer in the West Yorkshire Police, he was awarded the British Empire Medal in 1990 for his service to the community.

Respected

A respected brass band historian he also wrote numerous articles and features as well as giving talks about local history, many through a weekly nostalgia column for his local newspaper the 'Brighouse Echo'.

His popular books such as 'What Brass Bands Did For Me' and 'Brighouse at Work' were also well received.