We had an exciting and at times emotional night on Thursday paying tribute to our dear friend John Myers sadly no longer with us. John was an inspiration to us all and we will remember him.

We managed to squeeze three Bands into the evening with the Tyne Valley Jazz Ensemble starting the proceedings  and getting us in the mood for Jazz.

Our Junior band is going from strength to strength looking resplendent in their new Polos kindly provided by Herding Hill Farm Camp Site.

The band is fortunate to be helped and mentored by Niall Armstrong and Peter Drake on Saxes. As a member of ‘Alter Ego’ Niall is one of the top Jazz saxophonists in the region and played some inspirational Solos.

These young players have grown in confidence with everyone having a go at soloing in front of a packed crowd.

Next up were the Tyne Valley Youth Big Band with an exciting set.

Sadly some of the band will be leaving in September, here we see Conor on Tenor Sax with a great solo.

TVYBB playing a moving rendition of ‘Gospel John’ in special memory of John Myers.

Dave (Maynard) Hignett himself playing the brilliant Intro into Fintans left ear. Nice!

Dave might look a bit red in the face but it was the lights, honest.

Tyne Valley Big Band finished off the programme before a joint Big Band Finale version of ‘Birdland’.

Thanks as always to all our sponsors, Wylam Brewery, Herding Hill Farm Camp Site, Core Music, The Queens Hall and the Phoenix for allowing us to use the club to rehearse and use for the concert.

Many thanks also to the packed enthusiastic audience who made it such a great night and contributing to the retiring collection which Johns family will donate to a musical charity.

Many of Johns close friends and family were there to make it a special night.