LOCAL musicians combined for a musical tribute to the nation’s airmen and airwomen.

A fund-raising event, named Hexham RAF Centenary Concert – A Musical History of Flight, held at the town’s Tynedale Farmer Function Suite proved a big hit.

Organised by Tynedale-based squadron leader Tony Newton, the concert featured music from the Tyne Valley Big Band, Hexham Brass and the Hex Pistols, who were joined at one point by guest singer Jill Newton for a couple of wartime hits.

Proceeds from the sell-out event will be shared between the RAF Benvevolent Fund and the Tynedale Macular Society Support Group.

Sqn Ldr Newton said: “What was really nice about this event is that the bands seemed to enjoy it as much as the audience!

“The function suite was a great venue, and the whole thing worked in a cabaret style that just wouldn’t have been the same with theatre seating. And there can’t be many events where a member of the band turns up wearing a Distinguished Flying Cross! We still had people seeking tickets on the day, but we just couldn’t squeeze anyone else in.”