Artillery band to perform at Shrewsbury church - starring former head chorister and army major

Major Guy Booth, 50, was a head chorister at the landmark Shrewsbury church before joining the Welsh Guards as a saxophonist in 1985.

Tomorrow he will present the Lancashire Artillery Band in a performance at the church, ahead of their appearance at Shrewsbury Flower Show later in the week.

Major Booth, who retired four years ago after a 30 year career with the Corps of Army Music, then spent several years as advisor to the Jordanian Royal Family on music and ceremonial matters.

Major Booth, who now lives in Wem, said he was pleased to be bringing the band to perform in his home-town, where much of his family still live.

He said: "I am very excited. It has been many years.

"It is really lovely to be able to go back and experience the wonderful ambience and place that St Chad's is.

"Also, as a Shrewsbury boy it is lovely to be in front of a friendly crowd."

Major Booth said there would be a varied programme of music for the evening.

He said: "We have a full breadth of music on show from Giuseppe Verdi through to Andrew Lloyd Webber musicals.

"There will be some solos – a real mixture of music that will really entertain the crowd."

The event has been organised by the Shropshire Branch of the Army Benevolent Fund, which supports veterans.

Lieutenant Colonel Richard Jones, chairman of the Shropshire branch, said they were thrilled to welcome the musicians.

He said: "This is a world class regimental band that is playing at Shrewsbury Flower Show and we have been really lucky as the Army Benevolent Fund to secure them to come and play at St Chad's and we will be raising very much needed money for homeless veterans and veterans who need support."

Doors for the event open at 6.30pm and the concert begins at 7.30pm.

Tickets which cost £8 for adults, and £5 for children and concessions, are available on the door.