Forty people attended the annual dinner at the Three Acres where guest speaker Simon Lindley spoke of his life in music.

THE life of an organist is, by the nature of the task, largely solitary. But the significance of our relationships with others was strongly emphasised by two speakers at the annual dinner.

Leeds Parish Church Organist Simon Lindley, spoke of the kindness and overwhelming sense of support he experienced during his recent illness. And master of ceremonies, Douglas Bell stressed the role of the association in helping to create and maintain connections with each other as he pondered the meaning of the term 'kindred associations.'

Simon Lindley's address ranged widely over a career which has encompassed playing, composing, teaching, adjudicating, conducting - and brass bands. His anecdotes concerning band conducting and his musical partnership with the cornet player, Phillip MacCann were warmly appreciated.

Robert Cockroft had earlier introduced the guests by likening each to a particular piece of music. He saw president-elect Malcom Cruise (seafaring beard, cheery disposition) as a Handel hornpipe and Douglas Bell as a carillon.

But Simon Lindley was a Flourish for an Occasion. Every activity he touched became an occasion and every occasion was characterised with a flourish.

Mr Lindley praised the setting and the meal, and said that as this was the third dinner at The Three Acres it was developing into a tradition that should be maintained.

It was pleasing to welcome two guests from over the Pennines, Susan Eddlestone, president of the Oldham Rochdale, and Tameside Association and Chris Idle of Oldham Parish Church. A collection raised £18.