4BR has been informed of the death of Norman Ashcroft, the former Principal Cornet of the Fairey Band.

Foremost

Norman was one of the foremost cornet players of his generation, a former bandsman with the National Youth Brass Band and a number of Championship Bands in the North West for 30 years from 1964 to 1994.

Norman passed away on Monday, 6th July, in hospital at Llandudno, North Wales, in his 90th year.

Unique

His friend, Dr Ronnie Kershaw told 4BR: "Norman was a unique member of the banding family in that in addition to being Principal at Fairey's in their most successful period under Harry Mortimer, he was also a professional brass player working with every major orchestra in the UK."

He was a quite remarkable man...Dr Ronnie Kershaw

Remarkable man

Ronnie continued: "He accompanied artists of international acclaim, such as Owen Brannigan, Heddle Nash and Isabelle Bailey in performances of 'The Messiah' and received only one lesson on how to play the cornet in his life — he was basically, self taught. A later pupil of his was Maurice Murphy. He was a quite remarkable man."

Humble

Ronnie concluded: "Norman was also a member of the Orchestra of the Carla Rosa Opera Company and modestly described himself as being '...an alright kind of player', said with true humbleness."

Funeral arrangement have been confirmed as taking place at Llandudno Crematorium at 2.00pm on the 17th July.

Family flowers only, but donations to a named musical charity will be announced.