Carrick man Des reflects on lifelong love of music after Honours mention

Mr Graham, known for his long-standing connections to Third Carrickfergus Band, was awarded the accolade for his services to the community.

The local man has also been a key figure at Carrickfergus Music Festival for many years.

“I’ve been interested in music for as long as I can remember - both my mother and father were involved with the Belfast Philharmonic Society - although I didn’t start playing the trumpet until I was 18,” Mr Graham said.

Having performed with Third Carrick Band since its formation, he then took over as Musical Director in 1986.

“It’s been a thoroughly enjoyable few years, with more ups than downs,” Mr Graham added. “Unfortunately, we can do nothing at the moment [due to Covid].”

And although the global pandemic has also led to uncertainty as to exactly when this year’s Honours will be conferred, the local man will be looking forward to a future “day out” at Hillsborough Castle with wife, Liz and son Peter.

Paying tribute to Mr Graham on Facebook, Third Carrick Band wrote: “Congratulations to our long term player/conductor, current conductor of our Youth Band and Vice President Des Graham for his very richly deserved award of the British Empire Medal (BEM) for services to the community in Carrickfergus.

“Well done from all in the Third Carrick family!”