4BR has been informed of the deaths of two of Cumbria's most popular bandsmen.

Armstrong

Alan Armstrong died on Friday, 15th January after a long illness. He was solo euphonium and secretary of Carlisle St. Stephen's Band for nearly 60 years.

Alan was the elder twin (by a few minutes) of Tony Armstrong (BOTH ABOVE), a BBb bass player with St. Stephen's Band for almost the same incredible time span. Tony passed away less than three months ago on 30th October after a short illness.

Both were aged 87 and had given remarkable, loyal service to just one band.

Father

Their father was George Armstrong who played EEb Bass with Carlisle when they won the National Championship in 1927. The win was repeated in 1929 and their uncle, Herbert Armstrong played flugel horn on both occasions.

Alan went to school with Ivor James the famous French horn soloist who was son of the band's principal cornet, Billy James.

During Ifor's spell as professional conductor in the 1970's, he described Alan Armstrong as the best euphonium player never having played in the top section.

During Ifor's spell as professional conductor in the 1970's, he described Alan Armstrong as the best euphonium player never having played in the top section4BR

One band player

This was because born in 1928 he was too young for the pre-war Championship Section band and was a dedicated 'one band player'. He was also a very proficient trombone player. Alan's sons Michael (currently a Project Manager in Mexico) and David were both players in the band for several years.

Alan won many prizes as both euphonium soloist and in quartets and in addition to being a hard working and dedicated secretary and solo euphonium, was founder and Chairman of the Cumbria Brass Band Association.

Funeral

His funeral will take place on Tuesday, 26th January, at Carlisle Crematorium, Dalston Road, Carlisle, CA2 6AR at 11.40am.