4BR has been informed of the death of Ken Hayward, one of Welsh banding’s foremost and most influential administrators.

President

A former President of the South East Wales Brass Band Association and Chairman of the British Federation of Brass Bands, he died peacefully at Nevill Hall Hospital, Abergavenny on Saturday 12th November. He was 83.

Born into a family with a rich banding heritage in Kent, he came to South Wales to teach, becoming a highly respected primary school Headmaster. His own involvement in banding coincided with his son David taking up brass playing with the Celynen Band. He later followed in his father’s footsteps to become a respected player, conductor and compere.

Adult learner

A proud ‘adult learner’ as he recalled, he later became a versatile playing member of Abergavenny Borough Band, who he served in numerous capacities both as player and administrator from 1965 until the time of his death.

His dignified professionalism brought him universal respect throughout the banding world – crowned by his exemplary multi lingual welcome to the bands competing at the European Brass Band Championships held in Cardiff in 1986.

His dignified professionalism brought him universal respect throughout the banding world – crowned by his exemplary multi lingual welcome to the bands competing at the European Brass Band Championships held in Cardiff in 19864BR

Proud

He was later the proud recipient of Life Membership of the South Wales Brass Band Association and an active trustee of Abergavenny Band, whilst his contest duties brought him great personal satisfaction both as a knowledgeable, sympathetic, witty, compere, and as a forthright, innovative administrator.

Real bandsman

Andrew Richards, Chairman of Abergavenny Borough Band told 4BR: "We are all extremely sad to hear of the death of one of our longest serving members and a real bandsman. He will be missed by us all.

Ken was a life member and one of our trustees. Together with his wife, Mair, he worked hard to ensure the long term success of the band, and both were particularly keen to see young players develop and enjoy their banding."

He added: "Ken’s grand-daughter also plays and his great grandson has also joined the Junior Band. That is a legacy for banding that spans four generations and is a fitting tribute to a true bandsman."

Funeral details

Ken Hayward leaves a widow, Mair, three children, eight grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

The funeral will be held on Wednesday 23rd November.

There will be a private cremation in the morning, followed by a Thanksgiving Service at 2.00pm at Abergavenny Baptist Church, Frogmore Street, Abergavenny, to which all are welcome.