Veterans to visit Northampton as part of concert celebrating 75th anniversary of the end of WW2

Veterans Norman Rhodes (top left), Maurice Marriott (top right), Eddy Habberley (bottom left) and Dennis Wells (bottom right) will all be part of the concert.

A band that commemorates the life and songs of a World War Two musician is coming to Northampton as part of the 75th anniversary since the end of the war.

Astor Big Band, which raises money for the Royal British Legion, has toured the country for the last 50 years.

The band led by Terry Steel, is now coming to Northampton as part of its latest tour ‘The Glenn Miller Story’.

Terry said: “We call it The Glenn Miller Story continues because we play some modern tunes as if he had never died. We do it in his style.”

Glenn Miller was an American musician who toured with US troops to entertain them during World War Two.

In December 1944, the aircraft Miller was travelling disappeared over the English Channel.

Terry added: “I do play the saxophone and the clarinet, but I spend most of my time comparing and telling the story.

“We interview the veterans and play lots of Glenn Miller music.

“There will be four World War Two veterans that will also be available for meet and greet afterwards.”

The band is made up of 18 musicians and six singers who all volunteer their time and are only paid expenses.

All the money raised from ticket sales and a collection on the night of the concert will go towards helping former servicemen and women.

Terry said: “We’re raising money for the Royal British Legion and specifically for PTSD sufferers to look after them.”

The Astor Big Band will take to The Deco’s stage on Sunday May 17, which is ten days after the 75th anniversary of the end of World War Two.

Tickets can be bought online from The Deco’s website.