WHEN Abergavenny man Gary Llewellyn joined the Welsh Guards Band over two decades ago it was the start of a globe-trotting adventure for the fresh-faced 17-year-old.

During 23 years of service Sergeant Llewellyn toured extensively throughout the United States of America, Canada, Jordan, Australia, New Zealand, and Europe, playing the French horn and in his own words, “representing Abergavenny on an international stage.”

During his colourful career the Welsh Guardsman has played at such high-profile events as the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, Prince William’s wedding, the Trooping of the Colour, and the London Olympics.

Although retiring from the army in June, Gary will be once again picking up his horn this weekend, returning to Wales, and preforming at an event very close to his heart - the World War 1 Commemoration, ‘Home At Last’.

Held in Hay-On-Wye and surrounding villages this Saturday and Sunday (4-5 August), the event, organized by the British Legion will involve a series of parades, choirs, military bands, veteran groups and living history exhibitions commemorating 100 years since the end of the First World War.

Gary will be one of many former soldiers attending the event and is proud to be returning to his native Wales where it all began.

It was the Abergavenny Borough Band who gave Gary the first opportunity to learn to play the tenor horn, and perform in many local events and contests in Wales and beyond.

As time marched on Gary was selected to play for the Gwent County Youth Brass Band and the National Youth Brass Band of Wales. In addition he joined the Powys and Gwent Cadet Force Band and attended two annual summer camps, a number of weekend concerts and an overseas trip to Holland.

As a direct result of the encouragement Gary was given by the instructors of the cadets, many of whom were members of the Welsh Guards Band, he successfully auditioned for the Welsh Guards Band and started basic training.

Gary explained, “The thought of making a career of my hobby was very appealing to me, and representing Abergavenny on an international stage was an opportunity I couldn’t turn down.”

In January 1997, Gary successfully mastered the challenging prospect of moving onto French horn under the guidance of another proud and talented Welshman, Anthony Randall.

Gary said, “Since my time in the Band I have toured extensively throughout the world. I feel extremely privileged to have held the position of principal horn and to have served with a high number of quality musicians.”

In stark contrast to the grand affairs he has played at, Gary has been involved in more intimate performances by the smaller ensembles. Including chamber orchestra performances during Investitures and State Banquets at Buckingham Palace.

He has also travelled to help build positive relationships within the local communities in Bosnia, Jordan and many other countries.

Gary said, “The variety of experiences the Band has had to offer, has been breathtaking, and celebrating the Welsh Guards Centenary in 2015 gave a chance for all to reflect on this unique experience.”

Gary retired from the Army in June 2018, having served for 23 years in the Welsh Guards Band, and now looks to spend some quality time with his wife Lucie, and two girls Isabella and Sophia.

You can hear Gary preform at The World War Commemoration ‘Home At Last’ which will start this Saturday at 2pm.

For further information please contact Event Organiser Kelvyn Jenkins on 07527 696968.