The Bearpark & Esh Colliery Band from County Durham has announced the death of Ray Evans, who died on Saturday 30th April following an illness bravely endured for the last three years.

Ray started to play cornet at the age of 7 in the Salvation Army, at Crook. He joined Esh Colliery Band in 1967 and throughout his time with them played cornet, soprano, flugel and horn, before reverting back to cornet.

Wry humour

Band Secretary Marion Waterworth told 4BR: "Ray had a wry sense of humour and was a quiet, unassuming man. Many people have anecdotes, stories and happy memories of time spent with him as the numerous condolence messages have shown.

He rarely missed a practice and was known for voicing his opinions about people who did, especially before contests! Despite his illness, he was determined to carry on playing and would attend even on his worse days. However, in March this year, his illness finally took its toll and prevented him from attending his beloved band."

Marion added: "We are proud and privileged to have had him as a member."

50 years of service

In 2001, Ray was presented with a certificate by the Durham County Brass Band Association for 50 years service to the banding movement.

Marion continued: "Ray worked tirelessly for years with learners, many of who have gone on to work with other bands. His wisdom, selflessness and easy distinctive tutoring style were loved by all.

Whilst his patience was sorely tested by some, he never gave up on them. He taught hundreds of youngsters, including his own family to play brass instruments and his work was recognised when he was awarded the Diploma of Honour for his outstanding contribution to the brass band movement through his teaching.

The Diploma was conferred by the Worshipful Company of Musicians and was presented by Geoff Whitham at the 2004 Area contest. He was extremely proud of that achievement and very humbled by it."

Life President

In 2015, Ray was made a Life President of the band and 2017 would have seen him complete 50 years of loyal, dedicated and continuous service.

Marion concluded: "Ray was one of the 'characters' of the banding world and he will be sorely missed, not just by the band he loved so much and supported so well, but by all who knew him. The banding movement has lost a stalwart and a true gentleman, but Heaven has gained a first class bandsman."

He leaves a wife, Marjorie, daughter Marion, son Michael, son-in-law David and grandchildren Lindsey, Nicola and Richard all of whom will carry on his legacy.

The family would also welcome any players who would like to join the band in playing at the service and, or, the concertBearpark & Esh Colliery Band.

Funeral details

The funeral will be held on Wednesday 11th May at 2.30pm at St. Andrew's Methodist Chapel, Dawson Street, Crook (DL15 8NH) and then 3.30pm at the Wear Valley Crematorium, Coundon, Co. Durham DL14 8NR

Refreshments and a small band concert in his honour will then be held at Crook Golf Club (DL15 9AA) on return from the crematorium.

Players and people who knew him can join friends and family at any time throughout the afternoon to celebrate Ray's life. The family would also welcome any players who would like to join the band in playing at the service and, or, the concert.