The death has been announced of former Desford Colliery cornet player David Giblin. He was aged 60.

A player of distinction, his first band was Croft Silver where he played alongside his younger brother, Terry. Subsequently, he joined City of Coventry 'B Band where he played principal cornet and helped them gain promotion to the Championship Section.

In 1973, he transferred to City of Coventry on repiano and was part of a very successful quartet in which he was joined by Nicholas Thompson, the current Head of the School of Wind, Brass & Percussion at the RNCM in Manchester.

Brilliant bumper-up

Shortly after Albert Chappell became Musical Director of Desford Colliery Band, David joined on solo cornet, becoming a brilliant 'bumper-up' to successive principal cornet players Kevin Dye, Martin Winter, Ian Porthouse and Linda Nicholson.

He also formed and played in the Desford quartet which won the British Open twice, and found time from a busy professional working life to become the highly respected Band Secretary.

During this period he both played and represented the band when they claimed four successive National title successes between 1987 and 1991 under James Watson.

He was also responsible for organising the band's prestigious visits to the USA and Russia.

During this period he both played and represented the band when they claimed four successive National title successes between 1987 and 1991 under James Watson4BR

New Zealand

He later joined James Watson at Black Dyke to help with administration as well as play. He also lived in New Zealand for several years, playing in their National Championships before returning to his home in Leicestershire.

In recent times, David played with Wigston, Bilton Silver and Jaguar Land Rover Bands.

Details of his funeral arrangements are not currently known but will be advised when available.

With thanks to Ray Stuttard