The Pemberton Old Wigan Band has announced the death of Barbara Littler, one of their most respected and dedicated players.

Married to husband Ken for 38 years, a mother to Laura, Katie and Gareth and grandmother to Sophie, Luke and Owen, plus a new arrival due in 2018, she started playing at school before joining the Brindle Band, Trinity Girls and the Lancashire County Police Band.

Friendships

In the early 1990's Barbara joined Pemberton Old Wigan, playing under the likes of John Maines, Nick Shepherd, Mark Peacock and Howard Bousfield.

Her daughter Laura also started playing at Eccleston and Barbara would take her to rehearsals. There she met Christine Banks and struck up a life-long friendship; both playing in the horn section of Pemberton, and enjoying the odd contest 'half' in the bar at events.

She was especially proud to have been able to play with the band at the Royal Albert Hall National Finals in 2000 — a life-long ambition finally realised, and became a steadying influence within the organisation, with her opinions keenly sought and respected.

Thoughts

A Band spokesperson told 4BR: "Barbara took a break from playing but was always ready to help and assist — playing for the organisation's 'B' Band at the 2017 Area contest. It was to be the last occasion she played, as in March she was taken ill and as a result passed away this month.

Our thoughts and condolences go to Ken and the family at this time for a lady who will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by all."

Our thoughts and condolences go to Ken and the family at this time for a lady who will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by allPemberton Old Wigan Band

Funeral arrangements:

St. Marys Church Leyland (PR25 1PD) at 1.45pm Wednesday 3rd January.
Any person wishing to play at the service please contact Dave Mcglynn or Alec Banks.