The death has been announced of the former BBC producer, presenter, journalist and brass band supporter Gerald Harrison.

He died in Fairfield Hospital, Bury, following a stroke, at the age of 87. His long-term partner Fiona, and sons Dave and Neale were at his bedside when he passed away.

Best of Brass

As the popular presenter of 'Best of Brass' on BBC2, and 'Champion Brass' on BBC1 North West, Gerald Harrison became a well-known personality on the brass band scene.

He also lived in Dobcross in Saddleworth, in a fine Pennine stone house overlooking the village green, where the annual Whit Friday Band Contest took place. After their band's had played, many conductors would regularly pop in to pay their respects and to chat.

He was warm and generous in company, with a ready wit, and a real passion for music. He was always a popular figure on the brass scene, and will be sadly missedfriend and colleague, Nick Peake

Passion

Speaking to 4BR, his former colleague, Nick Peake told 4BR: "I directed the third series of 'Champion Brass' in the 1980s, and we became firm friends, sharing a love of music in general and brass bands in particular.

He was warm and generous in company, with a ready wit, and a real passion for music. He was always a popular figure on the brass scene, and will be sadly missed."

Gerald Harrison came from Derby (where 'Best of Brass' was filmed) and worked on the local newspaper, before getting a job with the BBC in Manchester, working as a reporter in radio and television.

He became a familiar face on BBC1's regional programme 'Look North' before moving into producing music and documentary programmes. He also produced 'A Grand Sing', and 'The Brass Beat' with Roy Castle as well as numerous other varied productions.

He was warm and generous in company, with a ready wit, and a real passion for music. He was always a popular figure on the brass scene, and will be sadly missedfriend and colleague, Nick Peake

Funeral details

Brass bands became a passion, and living in Dobcross gave him access to some of the big names in the brass band world, who became personal friends.

The funeral will be held on Wednesday April 3rd at 1.00pm at Holy Trinity Church, Woods Lane, Dobcross, retiring to Dobcross Band Club.