The death has been announced of Bob Platt, one of the banding movement's most popular characters and a former player of distinction with a number of the very best bands in the UK.

The Saddleworth bandsman died on Sunday, 28th August, aged 97 after a long illness. He leaves a son, Roger, who acted as his carer for his last years.

Slow Melody

Bob was taught to play by his father Jimmy Platt, who was conductor of Dobcross Band for many years. Naturally, he joined the band and later became principal cornet, becoming well known for his many prize winning slow melody performances, often playing 'Softly Awakes my Heart' by Saint-Saens.

His great rival, but also great friend was Charlie Rushworth, another outstanding slow melody cornet player, whilst Bob also helped to mentor another legendary performer, soprano star Brian Evans when he was a young cornet player with Chadderton & District Band.

War service

During the Second World War, Bob served an Army driver in North Africa and in Italy, and on his return he lived until his death in Dobcross, close to where the famous Whit Friday contest took place each year.

In 1962, Bob joined Crossley's Carpet Works, crossing the Pennines in all sorts of weather to be part of a great cornet team led by Bernard Bygraves.

The band was runner-up at the National Finals in 1962, conducted by John Harrison. Bob played with Crossley's until its demise in 1969, mostly as bumper-up and became Principal Cornet after Bygraves emigrated to Australia.

He retired from the band in 1983 having taken part in three National victories in 1969, 1973 and 1980, the band's last British Open success in 1978 and their famous Granada Band of the Year win of 19754BR

Major victories

In 1969 he joined Brighouse & Rastrick and served with distinction on their front row cornet bench for many years before moving to 2nd cornet.

He retired from the band in 1983 having taken part in three National victories in 1969, 1973 and 1980, the band's last British Open success in 1978 and their famous Granada Band of the Year win of 1975.

He later held several administrative positions, including that of librarian and a member of their committee. After leaving Brighouse, Bob continued his interest in banding by helping several local bands.

Funeral details

The funeral will take place on Thursday, 8th September at Oldham Crematorium, Hollinwood Cemetery, Roman Road, Oldham, OL8 3LU at 2.00 pm.

Thanks to Ray Stuttard