Mr Morris, from Little Rock, Arkansas, was visiting the area to take part in a brass band festival held at Butlins, Skegness. He was the guest of the silver band's musical director, Steve Walker.

Mr Walker said: "Rusty made me very welcome when I was at the band championships in the States. He was kind enough to let me conduct his band in rehearsal, so it was good to be able to return the honour.

Every band can benefit from an occasional change of conductor. It keeps things fresh."

Rusty started off with the band's training section, giving the youngsters some tips, and went on to take the main band through some of their spring collection.

After the rehearsal he said: "When I look at what the band was playing 12 months ago and see and hear what and how they are playing now, it is evident that Steve is stretching them and they are responding well to it."

Information: www.alfordsilverband.co.uk

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