4BR has been informed of the death of Southern Counties Band Association President, John Williams on Sunday, 19th March.

Sally Coleman told 4BR: "John had been fighting a mighty battle with cancer. His tenacity during this battle showed the great character of this wonderful exuberant colourful man who was an example to us all.

Brass banding has lost a true loyal friend and he leaves a great void."

Marine

John was born in Derbyshire and became a highly respected French horn player with the Royal Marines. He was with the Marines until 1982 which included a year serving on HMS Devonshire.

His work with numerous bands is well documented, especially Chichester City where in a decade he won in excess of 40 trophies and his service to the band was recognised by Chichester City Council. The band recognised his work with them by giving him Life Vice Presidency.

John had been fighting a mighty battle with cancer. His tenacity during this battle showed the great character of this wonderful exuberant colourful man who was an example to us allSally Coleman

Chairman and President

John became the scaba Chairman in 2006 and was a very active hands-on Chairman. He became President in 2010. He proudly represented scaba attending as many engagements, contests and meetings as his health would allow.

Funeral details:

John’s funeral will take place on Tuesday 10th April at Chichester Crematorium (PO19 7UH) at 12 noon.

Family flowers only but donations to St. Wilfrid’s Hospice, Grosvenor Road, Chichester PO19 8FR All very welcome but please no black clothing.

Thanksgiving concert

A Thanksgiving Concert will take place. Please watch the scaba website, scaba.co.uk for details, but all musicians who would like to be part of this scaba scratch band please email Alex Stevens at fgb@alexvicary.co.uk