An Isle of Wight brass band fan got the surprise of his life when he was awoken on the morning of his 80th birthday by the sounds of Abbey Brass.

Quintet

Mike Redman couldn't believe his ears when he heard a quintet from the band strike up 'Happy Birthday' outside his bedroom window.

The musical surprise was organised by his wife Penny, who revealed that as Mike has been a brass band fan for many years, she couldn't think of a better way than to start the day of celebration in unique fashion,

Appropriate way

"It seemed an appropriate way to mark his special birthday. We have seen Abbey Brass perform on the Island and I'm so pleased they were able to help. He couldn't quite believe what he was hearing!"

Mike was still in his dressing gown and slippers when he added: "What a wonderful surprise. I really couldn't believe it — a performance right on my front lawn!"

Unusual request

MD Phillip Littlemore who was part of the quintet added: "We were delighted to help Mike celebrate his special birthday.

It was a very unusual request, but it was tremendous fun, especially as his neighbours enjoyed it too!"