Cockerton Prize Silver Band are holding a special concert on Wednesday May 7th at the band’s headquarters to pay tribute to the band's former Principal Cornet player Mark Nightingale, who died last year as a result of a tragic road traffic accident.

Dedicated bandsman

Apart from being a dedicated and talented brass bander Mark did so much for Cockerton Band, one minute fixing the electrics in the band room, the next overhauling a vibraphone, and all this on top of being a first rate band manager and committee member.

This tribute concert is being organised in the spirit of a celebration of Mark’s full, but all too short, life, and to use one of Mark’s pet expressions he would have wanted “nee doom and gloom”4BR

Tribute

This tribute concert is being organised in the spirit of a celebration of Mark’s full, but all too short, life, and to use one of Mark’s pet expressions he would have wanted “nee doom and gloom”.

It is hoped that all those who knew Mark, either through the many north-east bands for whom he played or borrowed players from, or just a friend will come along.

Soprano Prize

Cockerton Band recently donated a trophy in Mark’s memory for the best soprano cornet (Second Section), presented for the first time at this year’s regional qualifiers.

Lenny Potts, who Mark knew well, from Ferryhill Town Band became the inaugural recipient and he’ll be coming along to show off his trophy.

There’s a £3 admission charge for the concert, the proceeds from which will be split between the band’s instrument fund and one of Mark’s favourite charities, Breast Cancer Support.