Pride in Oldham: Music maestro Martyn is No1

Nominated... Martyn Evans with pupils from the school's brass band

SCHOOL band members have been singing the praises of music teacher Martyn Evans who has been nominated for a Pride in Oldham award.

Mr Evans (51) is deputy director of Oldham music service but he is also a music teacher at SS Aidan and Oswald Primary School in Royton where he conducts the brass band.

Former band member Amelia Scott said: “I wanted to nominate Mr Evans for all his hard work with the brass band and for his patience and care.”

Mr Evans said he was pleased with the nomination and the band tended to be a focus for the school.

It gave the children a good incentive to be involved and the band went out into the community giving concerts at Christmas to pensioners.

Another draw was the Christmas concert in school and the band had won the Rochdale schools music concert 10 times in recent history. Mr Evans said: “In addition we are sometimes asked to play at local companies. And it is playing in the community which brings us the most pleasure.”

Mr Evans, who is married, was brought up in Uppermill but now lives in Ashton.

To nominate someone for a Pride in Oldham award, fill in and return the nomination form (right).