Astley Youth Band's Annual Awards Evening was held on Friday evening, 4th July, at Lowton Civic Hall with the event attended by the Mayor of Wigan, Councillor Rona Winkworth.

Surprise

As well as the annual awards, there was a special surpirse in store for the band's Chaiman, Stephen Minshall, and Training Band Musical Director, Sue Harrison.

The Rotary Club of Astley, who regularly support the band, attended the event, and presented them both with a Service Recognition Award, for their services to Astley Youth Band over many years!

It is a credit to their hard work and dedication over many years. Astley Youth Band is a true Comminuty band, and would not function without the help of parent volunteersHelen Minshall

Driving force

Stephen Minshall is more than just a chairman — he is the driving force behind Astley Youth Band, and the band would simply cease to function without his efforts, and superb organisational skills.

Sue Harrison has for many years done a magnificent job as Training Band Musical Director, and has enthused the band's newest recruits, before passing them on to Helen Minshall in the Senior Band.

Hard work

The band's Musical Director Helen Minshall, who was awarded Rotary's Paul Harris Fellowship for Services to Astley Youth Band some years ago, is delighted that both Stephen and Sue have been presented with these awards in recignition of their service.

Credit

She told 4BR: "It is a credit to their hard work and dedication over many years. Astley Youth Band is a true Comminuty band, and would not function without the help of parent volunteers. I am fortunate to have such an excellent team backing me up at all times. We are very grateful to the Rotary Club of Astley for their on-going support."