Thornton Cleveleys Band has announced the death of popular bandsman Keith Grills, who has died aged 82.

Keith started playing the cornet in 1941 with Cadishead Salvation Army Band in Salford aged just 7.

Principal cornet

He eventually became principal cornet with and in 1971 moved onto soprano before taking on the role of principal cornet with Cadishead Public Band.

Moving to the Fylde area he joined the Blackpool Band in 1980 (then called Dutton Forshaw Motors Band) where he spent over 25 happy years. In 2007 he came to Thornton Cleveleys Band where he played 2nd cornet until he began to suffer ill health in 2015.

Wonderful career

A spokesperson told 4BR: "Keith enjoyed a wonderful musical career of over 70 years. He had many funny stories to tell as well as proud memories such as winning a Gold Medal at the World Music Festival in Kerkrade, Holland in 1983, as well as playing at Harrogate and the Albert Hall in the National Finals.

Keith is a well known musician throughout the Fylde Coast and further afield. He was well known for being a true bandsman and gentleman. He was presented with an award in December 2015 to commemorate his services to brass bands.

The members, committee and followers of Thornton Cleveleys will miss Keith very much but also feel honoured to have known such a wonderful man."

Keith is a well known musician throughout the Fylde Coast and further afield. He was well known for being a true bandsman and gentlemanBand spokesperson

Funeral arrangements

The arrangements for Keith's funeral are: Wednesday 21st September, 2.15pm at Carleton Crematorium, Stocks Ln, Blackpool (FY6 7QS)

If you were a friend of Keith's and would like to play at his funeral please contact Nicola Holland on 07749118284 or tcbsecretary@hotmail.co.uk