The Staffordshire Band has announced the death of their long-standing President, Eric Elliott.

Eric passed away on Saturday 24th November at Amberley Care Home, Stourbridge after a brief illness, with his son and Band Chairman, Shaun at his side.

Long association

Eric enjoyed a long association with brass bands, starting with Bakewell Silver. He played for many bands in Derbyshire, including Darley Dale, before moving to the Midlands in the early 1960's.

He joined the Fisher & Ludlow Works Band (later becoming the City of Birmingham Band) under John Bright enjoying many years of success and lifelong friendships.

Retired

In the late 1970's he followed his son, Shaun, to the fledgling Walsall Metropolitan Band and helped them win the Third Section National Championships in 1977.

Eric 'retired' from playing shortly after, before turning his attentions to help running what eventually became the Staffordshire Band — later become their first President – a role he proudly held until his death.

Support

Eric and wife Madge continued to support the band and was delighted to be there for their first ever appearance at the Championship Section National Finals in 1991 as well as tours to Germany in 1992 and 1994.

In 1998 he was awarded a 'Long Service Award' in recognition of 65 years of service to the brass band movement by the West Midlands Brass Band Association4BR

Service

In 1998 he was awarded a 'Long Service Award' in recognition of 65 years of service to the brass band movement by the West Midlands Brass Band Association.

Although his wife passed away in 2009, Eric continued to help and support the band — always interested to find out what was going on and to offer his extensive wisdom and experience.

Funeral details

The funeral will take place at Lodge Hill Crematorium, Weoley Park Road, Selly Oak, Birmingham, B29 5AA on Tuesday 4th December at 11.30am

Donations to St. Giles Hospice, Fisherwick Road, Whittingham, Lichfield, WS14 9LH.