4BR has been informed of the death of Lewis Merthyr Band stalwart, life member and trustee David Arnold after a short illness.

David originally hailed from the Forest of Dean, where he played for a number of local bands, before taking up employment in Cardiff, with Rosemount Funeral Services. Shortly after moving to Taffs Well he joined the tuba section of the Lewis Merthyr Band under the baton of Nigel Seaman.

Well respected

A spokesperson told 4BR: "For the vast majority of time he enjoyed Dave played Eb bass, although he was always prepared to play in other positions as and when required. That was the type of bandsman he was and also became a well respected Band Chairman."

He will be greatly missed by all members of the band and the Welsh brass band movement who came in contact with him over the years, and our condolences go out to his wife Rita and familyLewis Merthyr Band

Greatly missed

They added: "He will be greatly missed by all members of the band and the Welsh brass band movement who came in contact with him over the years, and our condolences go out to his wife Rita and family."