MEMBERS of the Wroughton Silver Band have donated cash to a diabetes charity in memory of their late conductor John Birkin.

John has been dubbed the unsung hero of local music after dedicating more than 40 years to the band.

He died in 2002 after complications arising from diabetes.

Band chairman Peter Jones said: "We really wanted to raise money for John's charity and donated the £200 from the band's funds."

His widow Jo accepted the £200 cheque at the end of the Silver Band's concert in the Town Gardens.

John joined the band in 1957 as conductor and served in that role and on the euphonium, baritone and bass until ill health forced his retirement in 2000.

During the final two years of his life, John turned his attention to training young band members.

John also played the euphonium and the tuba with the Wiltshire Constabulary's band and the Wessex Wind Band.