Composer and conductor Paul Lovatt-Cooper continues to make excellent progress in hospital following his recent stroke.

Overwhelmed

Close friend John Doyle told 4BR that Paul and his family had been overwhelmed by the response they have received since news of his illness broke, and that they feel very humble that so many people throughout the banding world have offered their best wishes and hopes of a speedy recovery.

Great progress

"He’s now making great progress," John said as he sent 4BR a picture of Paul sitting up and smiling in bed.

"There were no warning signs of anything untoward and he was very fortunate that the ambulance service arrived so quickly when he suffered the stroke at work on Friday.

They immediately took him straight the special Stepping Hill Stroke Unit at Stockport Hospital, where he has had brilliant care from all the staff."

Back to normal

He added: "He initially lost the sight in his right eye and the use of his right arm, but these are quickly returning back to normal, thanks to the fact that he’s only 39 and that he has been in good health.

All the family wish to thank everyone for their best wishes and for the time they have taken in getting in touch – it really has meant such a great deal and helped Paul immensely. The hospital and ambulance staff have been amazing."

Humour

However, John also revealed that thankfully, Paul hadn’t lost any of his well known sense of humour.

"Despite all the brilliant care, unfortunately his football brain hasn’t been affected and he remains a committed Bolton Wanderers supporter – although he was quick to point out to me that even in his present condition things are looking up better for him than Manchester United..."