Shipston Town Band has announced the death of one of its longest serving member, Paul Sargent. He was aged 88.

Paul had been associated with the band for more than 75 years — starting as a youngster just after the Second World War.

After National Service, where he was a member of the Band of the Shropshire Light Infantry he returned and became an integral part of the organisation for the rest of his life — enjoying their successes on and off the contest stage.

His commitment as a player and supporter saw him both build music stand boxes to starting a junior band section.