The death has been announced of Eric McKenning, a former player with both Carlton Main Frickley Colliery and Markham Main Bands. He died peacefully at the Royal Doncaster Hospital. He was 94.

Eric was one of the last surviving pre-Second World War Carlton Main players, joining the Yorkshire band in the late 1930's. He played under some notable conductors, including Albert Badrick, Eric Ball, George Hespe, Noel Thorpe, Alex Mortimer and Jack Atherton.

Open victory

He was a member of the 1958 British Open winning band under Atherton, as well as enjoying numerous other Championship winning successes such as the Edinburgh Festival and National Mineworkers Championship. He later joined Markham Main Colliery in 1963 and enjoyed further contest successes. He did not retire from active playing until well into his eighties.

Eric was a fine player and a fine man. Never a star performer he was one of those indispensable banding servants and players — a solid, highly competent cornet and horn player and a man you could always rely onDavid Read MBE

Fine player

David Read MBE told 4BR: "Eric was a fine player and a fine man. Never a star performer he was one of those indispensable banding servants and players — a solid, highly competent cornet and horn player and a man you could always rely on. He was another great link to the past that has been lost."

Funeral service

The funeral service will take place on Friday 3rd July at St. Leonard and St. Mary's Church of England Church, Church Street, Armthorpe, DN3 3AN at 1.30pm followed by committal at Rose Hill Crematorium, Cantley Lane, Cantley, DN4 6NE.

Afterwards family, friends and well-wishers will meet at the Band Room in Armthorpe park.

Family flowers only please, donations will be made to Brass Bands England and Markham Main Colliery Band.

Enquiries may be made to J Steadman & Sons Funeral Directors, 01302 344444