The death has been announced of David Jack, one of the most popular figures in the North East banding community. He was 89.

Davy, as he was known to everyone, started his banding journey on tenor horn, but quickly moved to the euphonium to start a lifelong passion and love for brass banding.

He soon joined the local church band, the Peoples Mission Silver Band which was to remain 'his' band for the next 78 years.

Happy marriage

National Service took him from home to Cyprus, Egypt and Germany, although he admitted that he always 'kept his lip in'. On his return, he married Muriel, herself a horn player. They were together for 68 years. Muriel pre-deceased him by a few weeks.

Over the years Davey enjoyed various low brass tenures — from euphonium to bass and even on bass trombone. He then became the proud conductor of the Mission Band and enjoyed teaching and inspiring new young players with his association with South Tyneside Schools Band for many years. He was also a member of Durham Constabulary Band

Supporter

An indefatigable supporter of brass band events, he regularly accompanied his son Stephen on his work with BBW, British Bandsman and 4Barsrest, becoming much sought after for his pre-results opinion.

Davey passed away following a short hospital stay, just three days after his beloved Muriel's funeral.

His own funeral service was attended by many friends from the various bands he played with musical accompaniment provided by 'his' Peoples Mission Silver Band.