CRICKET-aficionados and music lovers (though not necessarily in that order) may want to pop along to Melton Sainsburys (Nottingham Road) on Friday (20 December) evening or Saturday morning when the Melton Band will be performing.

A recent addition to the band is former England and Leicestershire fast bowler and legendary BBC commentator Jonathan Agnew.

'Aggers', currently entertaining cricket and sporting enthusiasts with fellow cricket legend Henry Blofeld on an Ambassador Cruise ship tour of northern European ports has revealed his return to a childhood passion and taken up the Euphonium again.

He was inspired to do so when he saw the band in concert at a local church after returning from an England tour last Christmas. 

Together with esteemed radio journalist Gary Richardson, who showed his musical skills, Jonathan even gave audience members a sample of his musical skills.

Watch them here: https://youtube.com/shorts/hdyjOCyfB24?feature=shared

As a boy growing up in Uppingham, 'Aggers' became a proficient Tuba player and once considered a career in music.

"But when it came to a choice cricket won. I hadn't touched a brass instrument for more than 40 years, but when I saw the Melton band last Christmas I was inspired to do so again, but I couldn't face the Tuba so went for the Euphonium. There's a chance I could even make 'first Euphonium' for this weekend!" he said.

"All I would say is that I wish I hadn't waited 45 years."

You can catch the band on Friday and Saturday, December 20 and 21 outside Sainsbury's (6-8pm and 10am-12pm, respectively) and on December 21 at Scalford Church (7.30pm).

If anyone would like to join Aggers' in his new-found enthusiasm for brass bands, Melton Band hold rehearsals once a week on Tuesday evenings, from 7.30pm to 9.30pm in Melton. Email [email protected] or call chairman, Stephen Gardner, on 07535 101649 or 07552 467118 to find out more.