The death of Thomas (Tommy) Hope has been announced.

Tommy died peacefully in his sleep on 31st July. He was a beloved husband to Agnes, much loved Dad of Pauline, and Grandad of Simone (Clarke, nee Leech) and Danny (Leech).

Dedicated

Tommy was a stalwart of the North West brass band scene. He was a staunch supporter of Fairey’s, although he had a soft spot for Dyke. His passions in life were his family, listening to any music with good old fashioned sound and emotion, and bowling.

Most people will remember him for always being near the front at the Formby Hall and for camping out in the same stall seat, year after year4BR

Regret

His greatest regret was that he never got the chance to actually play a brass instrument.

The story we have been told goes back to when he was a lad. Walkden Band had an “open day” where any kids interested in playing could come along and have a go. Unfortunately, he arrived after all his friends and didn’t get an instrument. Ken Mather was one of these friends, and it’s been said that’s why he could never stop playing or leave Walkden band. He was with the band over 60 years. The rest, as they say, is history.

Dedicated

Although he didn’t play, he was a dedicated bandsman in that he full heartedly supported any family member and therefore their related band in everything they did. He always held a great fondness of all the friends he made along the way, especially everyone at Fairey’s and Trinity Girls.

Camping out

Most people will remember him for always being near the front at the Formby Hall and for camping out in the same stall seat, (just across from Doreen and Harry Wilkinson and behind Charlie Taylor), year after year with his friend Graham, to listen to the Championship section at Blackpool.

Funeral Service

The service, to which all friends are invited, will be held at the Chapel at the Overdale Crematorium, Overdale Drive, off Chorley New Rd, Lostock, Bolton, BL1 5BU on Friday 8th August at 10 a.m. and afterwards at Worsley Old Hall pub, off Walkden Rd, Worsley.

Family flowers only please and donations in lieu to Cancer Research. Black attire is not required.