AN Altrincham pipe major has been honoured by the Northenden Pipe Band after 40 years of service.

Jim Hickey, who has now stood down, was presented with a tantalus in appreciation of his devoted service to the band.

As pipe major, Jim has undertaken to be the tutor of all new beginners, as well as managing the progress of intermediate and senior levels of piping in the band.

A new tune was composed by retired pipe major Tom Mullen entitled ‘Jim and June’, to recognise Jim’s dedication and service to the band. Jim and and his wife June have been married for 53 years.

Jim learned piping with ‘Fianna Phadraig Pipe Band’ of Wythenshawe as a 12-year-old, joining Northenden Pipe Band in 1972.