I’ve been part of the band since January 2008 and it really does feel like a family. Everyone is so supportive, there are no big egos or divas, and we enjoy making music together without the pressure of contesting. I love that we play a mixture of new and traditional brass band pieces, and being part of the ensemble always lifts my mood.

I began playing Tenor Horn at 11 and have been part of the Yorkshire brass band scene ever since, performing with groups like Barrow Colliery, Dodworth, and Carlton Main. After years of playing under great conductors, I decided to take up the baton myself. I’m proud to lead Worksop Miners Welfare Band — a friendly, enthusiastic group who share my love of making music for the community.

I first joined the band aged 10, back in 1948. I still remember those early rehearsals in the old Victorian conservatory at the Royal British Legion HQ — sweltering in the summer, freezing in the winter, and forever dodging the leaks in the roof!
Over the years I’ve had the pleasure of teaching many of our young players, and it’s a real joy that so many of them are still part of the band today. At 87 years young, I’m still loving every minute: the music, the friendships, and the chance to meet new faces. I hope to keep playing for many more years yet.

I first joined the band over 30 years ago playing bass along side Reg. It was a great time with such a lovely bunch of people. After a long absence doing other things I returned 2 years ago wondering if they would have me back on bass only to be asked if I would play drums instead. Having had some drum lessons I am now the percussionist and loving it!

Retired and wanting to further my musical interests, I bought a cheap trumpet and was dully invited by a neighbour to learn to play properly. Reg Alletson encouraged me over time to become a fully fledged member of the band and I have never looked back. I have been privileged to play with some very talented players who have always inspired me and continue to do so! Its been 18 years now and I hope to continue for some while yet

My introduction to WMWB was back in early 1968 at the age of nine.  The band used to rehearse on Sunday morning and Wednesday evening with Monday evening being reserved for the training band.

So, it was one Sunday morning when I got the invite to go to band with my brother who was already a player.  We rode to band on his motorbike which at least gave mum and dad a couple of hours peace............. but not for long!

Two hours later and back we rode home with me clutching onto the motorbike for dear life with one hand while holding a cornet case in the other.

As they say, the rest is history.  I've been in the band since that very first day and played many different instruments before settling on Euphonium..... for now

I very recently joined the band after seeing a piece in Life magazine. Everyone was so friendly and encouraging, even though I hadn’t played baritone for years! After listening at my first rehearsal, I was offered an instrument to take home, and when I came back the following week, I felt instantly welcomed and supported. It’s been lovely getting back into playing in such a warm, encouraging atmosphere.

I’ve been with the band for 43 years now! I enjoy the variety of music we play and am the band’s principal utility player filling in on parts wherever I’m needed.

Since joining the Band aged 13, I have many fond memories, too numerous to recall.  I really enjoy the camaraderie and the wide variety of music that we play.  When I first started it was lessons and training band on Monday evenings; rehearsals were Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings - we used to practice marching on the (Carlton Road) car park!  I started on 3rd cornet but over the years I have played most ‘valved’ instruments; currently playing flugel horn.