A Sidmouth Town Band ‘stalwart’ has been recognised for an ‘outstanding’ seven decades of service to music.

Harold Curtis, 78, received an award at the South West Band Association’s Annual Championships in Torquay on Saturday.

The Manstone Avenue resident joined the band as a boy in 1946. He followed in the footsteps of his dad, Jack, who joined in 1923 and later returned to play in it following World War Two.

Over the years, Harold has been the band’s chairman, secretary and librarian. He continues to play the E-flat bass.

Martin Cordy, town band chairman, said: “His commitment is fantastic and the band would like to thank Harold for all his many years of hard work and dedication.”

Fiona Harvey, principle cornet player, added: “Harold has now reached his 70th year with the band - an achievement and a demonstration of commitment that we all admire so much. Harold is a true bandsman and has been a stalwart of Sidmouth Town Band throughout the seven decades.”

In addition to the award, it was a successful weekend for the band, which took second place in the Second Section - impressing judges with its rendition of Oceans by Goff Richards.

Martin added: “This result has rounded off a fantastic year where the band, led by Adrian Harvey, has had a number of successes, including fifth place at the national finals in September.”