A CONCERT at Evesham Art Centre raised a four-figure sum for the Tracy Sollis Leukaemia Trust.

Avonbank Brass Band, Stour Concert Brass and Vale Harmony all took to the stage in support of the charity.

This is the fifth year the annual concert has been held. The event originated when a special service was held by both bands in memory of trombonist David Turner who was a dedicated brass band musician and also a trustee of the charity.

This year’s concert was given an extra dimension when barbershop group Vale Harmony offered their services.

Special highlights of the evening included a solo performance by Stour Concert Brass’s principle cornet player 16-year-old Luke Barker who performs in the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain. 

The band’s repertoire included ‘Flanders Fields’ with a tribute to those who served in the armed forces. Standard Bearer Adam Willetts and Philip Speed represented the Royal British Legion on the night.

Avonbank Brass Band produced a real surprise when tenor horn player Carole Smith played a piece of music named and dedicated to Tracy. 

Carole is now the proud owner of Tracy’s tenor horn and the music had been especially composed in time for the evening by the band’s Eb bass player Jacob Ashworth.

Tracy’s mum and founder of the charity, Sue Sollis said: “It was a very moving moment and a complete surprise when announced. It really is an outstanding piece of music”.

Funds raised from the event will go towards purchasing vital equipment needed for the Anthony Nolan Research Institute. The Tracy Sollis Laboratory is situated within this centre.