THE musical director of Hangleton Senior and Youth Brass Band is our hero of the week after devoting his time to the band throughout the years.

Richard Baker, 47, of Poplar Avenue, Hove has given many youths the opportunity to experience the excitement of being part of a band as well as make music.

Rachel Richards, who has three children who are all members of the youth band, said: “Richard is an inspiration to adults and children and we all appreciate how much he does in the name of music.

“The children have an amazing respect for Richard because they can see how much he is committed to working with them.

“He is a fantastic guy and our local hero.”

Richard originally joined the Hangleton Band at the young age of six to play the Cornet returned in 2008 to conduct the band.

Richard said: “It’s a challenge to get kids involved in music but it’s a great opportunity for the children.

“I feel really special and honoured to be nominated. It’s an absolute pleasure to be around the children.”

The band, which performs at a variety of local functions and concerts to help raise funds, was originally formed in 1965.

By 1975, the band had more than 70 players and in 1978 a committee was formed and the band became a registered charity, which it still is today.

Youth players within the band range from eight-year-old beginners to 18-year-old Grade 8 musicians.

Funds raised are then used to support those with the cost of instruments, as well as costing of uniform, venue hire and music stands.

The band is next playing on June 28 at St Peters Fate in Hove. If anyone is interested in learning a brass instrument from September, contact the band via its website http://www.hangletonband.co.uk.