4BR has been informed of the death of Tony Burton, a stalwart of brass banding for over 70 years.

He passed away, aged 83, after a short illness earlier this month.

Self taught

Tony began playing with Dove Holes Band near his home in Chapel, subsequently moving on to bass trombone, which he taught himself to play.

He went on to perform with distinction with Fairfield Band, Buxton, and at Championship Section level with Stalybridge, Dobcross and Matlock. During this period he was Secretary of the North West Brass Band Association.

He met his partner Linda Wilde when he was appointed MD of New Mills Band and on early retirement they decided to move to Cornwall, where he played with Bude Town and Launceston Band.

MD

He later moved to Hatherleigh Band playing there for some 15 years, mainly on bass trombone, but also on Eb Bass, but also helped out many local bands. In 1998 he became MD at St Gennys Silver Band, continuing there until his death.

In 2003 he assisted a new band, Bude Metric Brass, find its feet playing at many of their early events, and it was to them that he returned shortly before his death offering a wealth of experience and anecdotes.

In 2003 he assisted a new band, Bude Metric Brass, find its feet playing at many of their early events, and it was to them that he returned shortly before his death offering a wealth of experience and anecdotes4BR

Funeral details

His funeral will be held on Thursday 18th December, at 3.00pm, at the North Devon Crematorium, Barnstaple. Family flowers only, donations to Macmillan Cancer Support.