Rushen Silver Band has paid tribute to a long-standing member who has received a BEM in the Queen's birthday honours.

Jim Crebbin joined the band in 1944 aged 12, became its bandmaster some 50 years ago and remained in the role until 2010. He's been recognised for services to music and his local community.

A spokesman for the band, pictured here in 1946, said: 'Jim’s award of the British Empire Medal in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List is an extremely
fitting reward and acknowledgement of his huge contribution to the community of the Isle of Man over 75 years. The band wish to publicly offer their heartfelt congratulations to Jim on his award, and hope that he continues to contribute for many years to come. Thanks, Jim, for all you have done for the band.

'It is down in no small part to Jim’s commitment, time, and enthusiasm for the band that it has been able to survive through good times and bad to become the community asset that it is today.'

As well as his band work, Jim has served for more than 20 years on the Manx Music Festival committee. He has also been involved for many years with Rowany Golf Club.

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