The Second Cornet (1) seat is generously sponsored by Bob Mills

Originally from Salford, Richard started playing at the age of 10 for his local band, Eccles Borough, moving to principal cornet aged 13. From Eccles, he moved to the now defunct Urmston & Davyhulme Silver Band in the second section before a very successful period with Bedford (Leigh) Band between 1983 and 1986.

Richard first joined Leyland Vehicles Band in September 1986 and enjoyed six happy years under the direction of Richard Evans. From Leyland, he moved to Rothwell, sitting ‘bumper-up’ to Richard Marshall teaching him, in Mr Walker’s own words, “everything he knows”! A move to a band from Queensbury (“Black something?”) followed, and this period included trips to New York’s Carnegie Hall. Richard also played at The Barbican with the LSO Brass Ensemble, which included the legendary trio of Maurice Murphy, Rod Franks & James Watson on trumpet. A brief return to Leyland (by then BNFL) followed, highlights of which included trips to Japan and South Korea. In 1996, Richard ‘retired’ to devote his time to being the perfect husband and father!

Several years later, after hearing Leyland at Uppermill Civic Hall, Richard resumed his playing career with Dobcross, Freckleton and, last but not least, YBS in 2006/2007. By this point, Richard had already staged more comebacks than Frank Sinatra, but a return ‘home’ to Leyland followed, only to be interrputed by work committments. Finally, in February 2013, Richard once was again a full-time player at Leyland Band.

A sales manager in the construction insdustry, Richard lives on the Fylde with his wife, Lisa, and sons Daniel and Jacob. Lisa & Daniel are both trombonists, making the family incredibly popular with their neighbours. Away from work and band, Richard enjoys running/getting fit, cooking and is a supporter of Manchester City Football Club.