In this photo, I’m getting set to play bass for the Charnwood Symphonic Wind Orchestra at Loughborough’s Carillon shopping centre this afternoon. That was Christmas gig number two for this band and it went very well. We have one more rehearsal and then a final outing of the term for the Mayor’s carol service at All Saints with Holy Trinity in town on Monday 19th.

Was it an indoor or an outdoor gig? Both! We were in the middle of the shopping centre but outside the shops so it wasn’t the warmest setting although not quite as chilly as St James the Greater at Oaks in Charnwood were we were last night. Mind you, that’s what you expect from an old, stone church and I can’t fault the warm welcome.

Last night’s was almost a silent gig for me. Initially, there was no power in any of the sockets I tried but, fortunately, we found someone who knew which trip switch to reset to get me going. Today was easier in that respect – I just plugged into the extension the Christmas tree was running off, as you do.