The death has been announced of Kenneth Watts, a highly respected member of the Milnrow Band organisation. He was 84.

Ken started his banding career with Grantham Town Band before enjoying spells with Woolsthorpe and Melton Town. In 1968 he moved to the Oldham area to take up employment with AVRO/British Aerospace in Chadderton and began his long and successful association with Milnrow.

Integral part

A band spokesperson told 4BR: "Over the next 50 years Ken contributed to the band in so many ways and was without doubt an integral part of our success."

After serving as a player, compare, Assistant Secretary and Chairman, Ken was appointed Treasurer in 1979, a position held for 21 years before being becoming a proud Band President in 1990. He was also a member of the Executive Committee of the North West Area Brass Bands Association and served the interests of local bands for many years."

Ken will be sorely missed, and all of our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad timeMilnrow Band spokesperson

50 years service

In 2011 he was presented with an engraved medal and a Diploma of Honour for 50 years service to the brass band movement. Ken recently moved back to Lincolnshire to be closer to his family, and passed peacefully away on Friday 29th March.

The spokesperson added: "Ken will be sorely missed, and all of our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time."

Funeral arrangements

The funeral will take place at Grantham Crematorium on Thursday 2nd May at 12.30pm followed by a celebration of his Life at The Stag Inn, Barkston from approximately 2.00pm. Flowers are welcome or donations to Milnrow Band.