THE list of past winners displays the city's illustrious history. (From Warrington Guardian)

THE list of past winners displays the city's illustrious history.

Since the awards were launched in 1967, Sir Matt Busby, LS Lowry and Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson have all taken the title of Mancunian of the Year.

But this year's winner chosen by the Junior Chamber of Commerce is a little different - he has never even lived in the city.

"I was born nearby in Salford but have never lived in Manchester," Capt Maurice Hennis told the Knutsford Guardian.

"And we've spent the past 20-odd years in Knutsford."

Last week the Greater Manchester police band conductor received the Mancunian of the Year Award from the city's Lord Mayor.

It topped off 24 years of leading the 40-strong wind band and raising thousands in charity concerts.

"I had no idea about it until I went back to work after Christmas and heard a message on my answerphone," he said.

"At first I thought somebody was playing a joke."

Maurice, who used to live in Mereheath Park, led the band until 1984 when it broke up.

But within a year he had pieced it back together again with police officers and civilians.

The musicians performed all over the city as well as making occasional appearances in Knutsford.

"We have played in the town a few times and even started off the annual old folk's concert," he said.

Maurice, who now lives in Chester Road, Mere, shared his award with community fund-raiser John Newsome.

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