BACK in October 1992, the Gazette reported on a young musician, who hoped to forge a career in the music business.

A Yate drummer followed in the footsteps of his grandfather, who played for Billy Cotton, and hoped to find fame in a local band.

Matthew Cooper, 18, a picture assembler of Sturmer Close, joined The Impossibles in May 1992 and went on to play at a series of local venues, including Yate Festival.

“My mum saw an advert in a music shop in Chipping Sodbury for a drummer and I went for an audition in Chipping Sodbury scout hut,” said Matthew.

He said he had always loved the drums and had played since his school days at Brimsham Green School in Yate when he belonged to the school band.

His mother Mrs Maureen Cooper felt his talent stemmed from his grandfather Sid Cooper who was a drummer for Billy Cotton.

She was one of the band’s greatest fans and went to all the concerts.

The Impossibles played rather different music to Billy Cotton however, including a mixture of reggae, rock and swing. The band hoped to find fame if they got spotted.

“I would love to make it my full time career,” said Matthew.