4BR has been informed of the death of Alan Faraway, a stalwart member of the St Pinnock Band in Cornwall.

Alan died peacefully at home on 20th June. He was 71.

Commited bandsman

Chris Luckhurst from the band told 4BR: "Alan was a life long committed bandsman who had played cornet in top section bands most of his life.

"Alan started out at the age of 10 with the South Ockenden Band, moving on to the Aveley Band in his teens and spending the 60’s with Hanwell Band.

"The Hanwell Band was doing well at that time, with contest success and television appearances, which was just as well as Alan was passing 147 sets of traffic lights to attend each rehearsal three or even four times a week.

His long playing career means that he will be sorely missed by the banding community throughout Cornwall and further a fieldChris Luckhurst

Gentleman

"In 1972 he brought his family to Cornwall and joined Bodmin Town Band. Over the years Alan did stints with Camborne and Kernow Brass until he joined St. Pinnock Band.

"Alan was always the true gentleman, uncomplaining and modest bringing a wealth of experience to the cornet section and despite his age, was a solid performer with great sound production.

Rely on

"He was the sort of player that all bands rely on, always present for engagement or rehearsal, a friend to everyone and a source of comradely tips for younger players.

"Alan quietly helped the band in many ways, without wanting fame or glory for his efforts and was always prepared to play for other Cornish bands needing a dep.

"His long playing career means that he will be sorely missed by the banding community throughout Cornwall and further a field."

Obituary:

A fuller obituary can be found at:
http://www.stpinnockband.com/