4BR has been informed of the death of former Berisfords Band principal cornet player Philip Dickens.

Philip held the role with the North West Band (which went on to become Congleton Brass) from 1966 to 1980, the vast majority of which was spent under the batons of his great friends and former Foden's soprano stars, Charlie Cook and Granville Jennings

Originally from Dinnington in Rotherham, Philip started playing the cornet with his local Salvation Army Band before going on to join the local Dinnington Colliery Band

Hat-trick

During his time as principal cornet with Berisfords he helped them to a hat-trick of victory at the British Open Spring Festival, winning Junior Trophy, Junior Cup and Junior Shield between 1968 and 1970.

Phil also enjoyed a successful conducting tenure at Thurcroft Welfare Band, both wit its senior outfit and in developing its youth band, and taught countless children to play brass instruments in the Rotherham and Sheffield areas, including his grandchildren.

Celebration of life

A celebration of his life will take place on 22nd November at Barnby Moor Memorial Park (DN22 8FL) commencing at noon.

If anyone would like to attend can you please contact: 07496836248.