A capacity audience recently enjoyed a wonderful evening of music making at St. George’s Church in Tyldesley in celebration and remembrance of Ray Peacock (above) – one of the finest players to grace the Fairey Band.

Thrilled

The event also raised over £2,500 for Parkinson’s UK, as Ray's eldest son Mark led Fairey in a programme which thrilled both young and old, as well as friends and colleagues of a player who is fondly remembered for his superb playing as well as his wonderful support and commitment to the band.

Unforgettable

Mark told 4BR: "It was an unforgettable occasion and a fitting tribute to a wonderful father, husband, grandfather and bandsman. The audience were magnificent and so generous in their support of a charity which is close to our hearts."

He added: "Dad, who was a member of Fairey for over 30 years, suffered with Parkinson’s Disease for the last nine years of his life, and to bring his beloved band to Tyldesley to support this very special charity would have made him enormously proud."

Our family is extremely pleased that such a tremendous amount of money was raised and we wish to express our sincere appreciation to all those who supported this very special eveningMark Peacock

Family ties

Mark, who has conducted Fairey since 2011, was joined by younger brother Stuart, also a former Fairey player on the percussion section, whilst Ray’s brother in law and former pupil, Brian Taylor led the cornet section and Ray’s nephew Matthew Taylor was on baritone.

"Dad left a legacy at Fairey which is still evident to this day," Mark concluded.

"So many people in the week following the concert have commented on what a magnificent event it was. Our family is extremely pleased that such a tremendous amount of money was raised and we wish to express our sincere appreciation to all those who supported this very special evening."