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Conductor at the helm for 40 years
Former members of a brass band will return for a special concert to thank the octogenarian conductor who has served them for 40 years.
When Ray Jeffery, 80, volunteered to conduct Thrapston Town Band in 1970, the role was meant to be temporary.
But four decades later he still leads the band and members he taught will return for a concert in his honour at the King John School in the town on Saturday, September 18.
Mr Jeffery, who received an MBE last year for services to the band and the community, said: "There will be a lot of reminiscing, there will be a lot of laughter and there will be a lot of tears."
When Mr Jeffery, who joined the band as a tenor horn player 57 years ago, became conductor when the band had only eight members. Now there are 35 and another 15 former members are expected to join for the concert.
Mr Jeffery, of John Street, Thrapston, has no intention of stopping.
He said: "One day when I get old I would like to go onto trombone and someone else can conduct, but not until I get old."
Kim Gilbert, events organiser for the band, said: "He is an inspiration to us all.
"He does get a big thrill from a big concert like this.
"It's a pleasure for Ray and it's a way of saying thank you to him for the service he has given."
The concert will start at 7.30pm. Tickets, which cost 4, are available from 01832 732221.
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Sunday 27 May 2012
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