A TEEN cornet player has been awarded the title of Musician of the Year with a local brass band.

Lily Mountford, 15 was presented with the award by Lydney Training Band and Starter Band after almost eight years with them.

Band conductor, Kevin Ford, said: “The title goes to the player who has offered the most to the band, not just in their playing but their attitude, attendance and general contribution to the progression of the band.

“Lily has grown as a player during 2018 and willingly taken on many new challenges.

“She goes beyond the normal responsibilities expected by the band to better both herself and her personal playing standards, and fully supports the band.”

Other awards went to Jenny Woodward, who received the conductor’s award, Ben Hannaford-Waddington with the player’s player award and Millie Mckechnie who was presented with the Most Promise award.

Most improved starter player was George Mc- Kechnie, most improved intermediate player, Zoe Fransham and most improved band player, Lysander Waring.

Mark Phifer was the most improved cornet player, while section of the year went to euphoniums and baritones.

The tutor’s award went to Samuel Hunt-Clark.

New member certificates were also awarded to 11 players.

“The main aim of the annual awards evening was to recognise the hard work put in by all the members of the bands,” added Kevin.

“But it was an enjoyable social event of fun, skittles, awards, food, and yet more skittles.

“The bands, which currently have over 50 members between them, worked very hard during 2018, performing at over 20 events including our annual brass and percussion workshop with guest conductor Tom Davoren.

Hard work deserves recognition and the awards evening is a great way to say thank you and well done to everyone involved.

“Both bands continue to thrive and many members are also involved in the senior band, contributing to Lydney Town Band’s promotion to the second section in the West of England Regional Championships.”