The Aldbourne Band will certainly be missing one particular player this year, following the recent death of the much loved Cyril Barrett.

Over 60 years

A spokesperson told 4BR: "This will be the first time for over 60 years that Cyril won't hear the band playing carols.

The Christmas morning tradition started in the 1950s, when the band would go round the village playing carols from 4 o'clock in the morning so that the bell ringers, most of who belonged to the band, could start ringing the church bells at six. This tradition still continues, and Cyril thought it was amazing."

80 years

Cyril died last month just days before his 91st birthday having been a member of the band for over 80 years.

They added: "During the Second World War Cyril became a 'Bevan Boy' before spending three years in the army in Germany. In 1948 when he was demobbed he returned to the reformed Aldbourne Band, initially on cornet, but later on Eb bass.

Cyril played under many famous conductors up until he finished playing in 1986 and becoming a highly respected treasurer, secretary, chairman, vice president and librarian. His jangling of keys and money at the back of the rehearsal room will be greatly missed."

Cyril was a true gentleman and a fantastic character with one of the warmest and most welcoming smiles you could wish for. They don't make them like Cyril anymore and we feel privileged to have known himAldbourne Band

True gentleman

They continued: "Cyril was a true gentleman and a fantastic character with one of the warmest and most welcoming smiles you could wish for. They don't make them like Cyril anymore and we feel privileged to have known him."