A MUSICIAN who has dedicated 50 years of his life to brass banding has been honoured for his service.

George Mullin, 64, has been playing with Renfrew Burgh Band since he was 14, performing under at least 15 musical directors in that time.

The soprano cornet player was treated to a surprise bash at Paisley’s Priorscroft Bowling Club, where he received a medal from the Scottish Brass Band Association in recognition of his dedication.

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Mr Mullin, who is also band manager, told The Gazette: “The evening came as a total surprise. My wife Jean was in on it from the beginning but hadn’t said a word.

“I can’t believe it’s 50 years already. Things have changed quite a lot in that time but I still enjoy it, so I’ll keep working hard for the band on and off stage.”

Mr Mullin, who was born in Glasgow and now lives in Penilee, played with the Glasgow Schools Brass Band as a youngster after being attracted to music when he heard his friend on the trumpet while at Crookston Castle Secondary School.

He eventually became the principal cornet player and joined Renfrew on third cornet in 1968 as a fresh-faced teenager.

After working his way along the section, he settled on soprano, where he has remained.

Mr Mullin’s band highlights include competition victories, as well as representing Renfrew with pride at the National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain.

The Gazette:

The Renfrew Burgh Band, pictured here in 1933, is a staple of the town 

He often features as a soloist and has enjoyed played The Last Post on Remembrance Sunday with the band on many occasions.

His role as band manager has seen him working hard behind the scenes to ensure continued success, from organising personnel for events to and transporting gear large amount of gear to and from events.

David Hoey, chairman of Renfrew Burgh Band, said: “George embodies all that is great about the brass band movement. A talented musician, his cornet playing has been a key part of our Renfrew Burgh Band’s success over the past five decades.

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“Off stage, his contribution has been enormous, carrying out many of the tasks which are crucial to the continued existence of any amateur organisation.

“Whether organising logistics, ensuring people and equipment get to the right place on time, hiring vans, signing new members or offering encouragement to an aspiring player, George is a true gentleman, an outstanding bandsman and Renfrew through and through.”

Tom Allan, secretary of the Scottish Brass Band Association, added: “It was a pleasure and a privilege to present George with his Life Membership medal for 50 years of service to brass banding and all of it to the same band – a somewhat unique achievement these days.”