4BR has been informed of the death of Les Ager, for many years the highly respected MD of Haverhill Silver Band. Les passed away on Thursday 24th October.

Varied career

In a wide and varied musical career, he gave over 60 years of service to many bands and choirs in Suffolk, as well as in other facets of community life – including a term as a local mayor, as well as being awarded the British Empire Medal.

Transformed

Richard Pannell told 4BR: "Les first joined Haverhill as a cornet player in 1953 before becoming its conductor and MD in 1964, a post he held for 30 years.

He transformed what was essentially a village band into one of the most successful bands in East Anglia, achieving competition success at regional and national level, including their appearance at the Third Section National Finals at the Royal Albert Hall in 1983."

Driving force

Richard also informed 4BR that Les was driving force behind the band’s popular 'Carols for All' concert each year as well as successful trips to Haverhill's twin towns in Germany and France, where he and the band established many long-term friendships.

He added: "Through his leadership and his involvement in other musical organisations, Les was an inspiration to a whole generation of musicians.

Many of the people that are still playing in the band today recognise him as the person that inspired them to take up a brass instrument."

He transformed what was essentially a village band into one of the most successful bands in East Anglia, achieving competition success at regional and national levelRichard Pannell

National service

Les undertook his national service in the Royal Anglian (Norfolks) Regiment Band and afterwards conducted the Haverhill Operatic Society for over 20 years and the Horringer Singers for shorter terms, as well as Newmarket Town and Ipswich Veterans Bands.

He was a member of the Bury St Edmund's Male Voice Choir, respected Town Mayor and was actively involved in the town's Royal British Legion branch.

Much missed

Richard concluded: "Les was still actively involved with the band in his role as President and despite his illness was always there to support the band's concerts and other functions.

No one has had a bigger or more influential impact on the band over the past 50 years. He will be sadly missed by us all.

Our condolences and thoughts are with Jean, Karen, Mark and his family during this difficult time."

Funeral details

The funeral will take place at the Old Independent Church, Haverhill on Wednesday 6th November at 11.30am. CB9 8EF

All are welcome to attend.

For further details, please email/phone Richard Pannell: rp1@mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk/07784127668