One of the UK's longest continuously serving band members was laid to rest this week, following the death of 86 year-old Derek Garner (above right) who passed away peacefully in his sleep in hospital on July 12th.

Loxley Silver Band had the honour to lead the funeral cortege of their longest serving member, and performed his favourite march tune, 'Slaidburn' on the procession.

Archive

The band's archive documents recorded Derek as having first paid his 3d subs on 16th January 1942, just six days after his 13th birthday, although it has been confirmed that he was an active member since age of 7, sitting alongside his father and grandfather who were also members of Loxley at that time.

His continuous 80 year membership is believed to be one of the longest of any brass band in the UK, and saw him play an active role until 18 months ago when his health began to deteriorate.

Tributes

Many tributes were paid to Derek at his funeral at Grenoside Crematorium, with the congregation reminded of his rather unique claim to football fame.

Derek used to play in the band on Boxing Day each year at both the homes of Sheffield United and Sheffield Wednesday — making him the only man able to say he played for both Sheffield sides on the same day.

This will be the first time in almost 100 years that there hasn't been a Garner in the band and Derek will be sadly missed, but by no means forgottenStuart Young, Secretary of Loxley Silver Band

Sadly missed

Stuart Young, Secretary of Loxley Silver Band told 4BR: "This will be the first time in almost 100 years that there hasn't been a Garner in the band and Derek will be sadly missed, but by no means forgotten."

Loxley Silver Band formed a guard of honour as the coffin was carried into the service alongside representatives from another nine bands including Whitwell Brass, Unite the Union (City of Sheffield), Rockingham, Thoresby Colliery, Bakewell Silver, Stannington, Oughtibridge, Haworth and Keighley Community Band.