Welsh banding has been shocked by the news of the death of John Bennett (right). He was 82.

The highly respected President of Newtown Silver Band was for many years the Welsh representative to the European Brass Band Association, ensuring that Wales had a strong and important role to play in the organisation’s development.

Enlightened

He was also a diligent and enlightened President of the South East Wales Brass Band Association, served on the Welsh Regional Council and more recently played an active role in the North Wales Association. His views and opinions were always sought and respected.

The former police inspector served for many years as Chairman of the North Powys Youth Band and has held many positions in his beloved Newtown Band, including that of Secretary and Contest Secretary. He and Helen were one of the driving forces behind the setting up of the popular Newtown March & Hymn Tune contest.

Great esteem

Held in great esteem for his non-partisan support of all levels of banding in the country, he and his wife Helen could been seen at almost every major and minor brass band event — including the recent Brass in Concert Championship in Gateshead.

Admired and respected

A Newtown Band spokesperson told 4BR: “To us at Newtown he was the perfect bandsman and role model, and was admired and respected by us all.

He never missed a rehearsal or engagement and was instrumental in organising many of our major concerts throughout the year — his favourite being the recent Festival of Remembrance.

To us at Newtown he was the perfect bandsman and role model, and was admired and respected by us allNewtown Band

Thoughts and prayers

They added: "He also played a major part in the setting up and running of our Hymn and March competition which he took great pride in.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Helen and the family at this sad time.”