A DEDICATED horn blower is finally set to be honoured after playing his tune in the same band for 80 years.

Frank Playle, 95, will be awarded a certificate tomorrow for his loyal service to Harwich Salvation Army band.

Born and raised in Old Harwich, he was encouraged to play in a junior band called the YP as a child at Sunday school.

He went on to the senior band, and is still making music 80 years on.

Mr Playle started on the e-flat bass, then the solo cornet, but his preferred instrument is the solo horn, which he has played since 1979.

The father-of-two was a ship carpenter throughout his working life and retired in 1979 from Parkeston Quay. He said: “It has been a privilege and a pleasure to play in the band all these years. It still is now!”

Mr Playle has always been supported by his family in his love for music and his son Francis followed his example, becoming a soldier in the Salvation Army.

Mr Playle will be given his certificate during a service on Sunday, along with a letter from the territorial commander of the Salvation Army in the UK, thanking him for his service. Lieutenant Jackie Jarrold, of the Harwich Salvation Army, said: “It’s fantastic.

“There are not many people who can say they are still playing in the Salvation Army band on a regular basis at his age.”

Lieutenant Andrew Jarrold added: “It’s a real pleasure working with him, he has got such a good sense of humour.

“He must be one of the longest serving bandsmen in the Salvation Army.

“The certificate of his service is only given to very few people.”

Mr Playle still plays with the band at Harwich Pier on Sunday afternoons during the summer.

He practises every tuesday night and performs each weekend at the Salvation Army Sunday worship.

He said he will carry on playing as long as he can.