A BAND created in memory of a young Flintshire man who died tragically played a Christmas concert near the village he grew up in. 

Ben Thomas, 24, was found dead at the HMS Raleigh training base in Cornwall, in January 2023 a week after fulfilling his dream of joining the Navy.

His mother and North Wales Senedd Member, Carolyn Thomas, described him as an "amazing" and "kind" man. 

She said in a tribute: "Ben was a highly intelligent, skilled and brilliant young man, full of life, determination and focus, most thoughtful and considerate of others.

“It was a pleasure and joy to have shared the experiences and times I had in his company."

Ben was a lover of music, and was a keen player of the trombone. In his memory, a band has been created by Ben's friends, members of the Royal Buckley Town Band and his conducted by his previous high school music teacher Andrew Searson. 

The Leader: Ben ThomasBen Thomas (Image: Phil Tugwell Photography)

Last weekend, the band, called B.T. Big Band, played a concert at the Christmas Tree Festival at St Mary's Church in Treuddyn - near to Pontybodkin where Ben grew up. 

Carolyn said: "I was delighted to hear the fabulous B.T. big band perform to a full audience. They played a lively mix of Christmas tunes and some old favourites that took me along memory lane when Ben performed with them on trombone in various bands over the years.

"The band originally came together to perform at his memorial service earlier this year. Some of them had continued performing in other bands and individually since leaving school, some hadn't performed at all. They have continued to rehearse together and have now formed the B.T. Big Band in memory of Ben.

"It's so wonderful what they are doing."

The Leader: presented them with some needlework artwork Carolyn presents the band needle work of a jazz band that was given to Ben by a friend, as well as a cheque for new equipment. presented them with some needlework artwork Carolyn presents the band needle work of a jazz band that was given to Ben by a friend, as well as a cheque for new equipment. (Image: User generated content)

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The band intend to raise funds for charities close to Ben's heart and continue playing music which they all love to do. They welcome new members and ask anyone wanting to join the band to get in touch.

They rehearse monthly in the Buckley Town Band room where a few are also members.

After the concert, Carolyn presented them with some needlework artwork of a jazz band that was given to Ben by a friend, along with a cheque for £800 to help them with equipment and start off the charitable donations. Further funds were raised in the night.

As well as the concert, community groups, schools and individuals were invited to decorate a tree as part of the festival. There was a quiz, raffle and refreshments over the two day event.