4BR has been informed of the death of Irwin Searle who died on Saturday 21st February in a hospice in Colchester, having suffered from a long period of illness.

Gifted player

Irwin was a gifted trombonist, well known around the Harwich and Colchester region — having been a former player with the Yorkshire Copper Works band, (later known as Yorkshire Imps), and having played with a number of brass and dance bands.

Golden tone

He was famous for his wonderful golden tone, and recently appeared at the Harwich Royal British Legion Band's 50th Anniversary reunion concert, playing the bass trombone part magnificently — easily belying his age of 81!

At that concert, one of Irwin's favourite pieces, the trombone solo "Stardust" was played and dedicated to him by his former pupilPeter Jones

Dedication

Peter Jones told 4BR: "At that concert, one of Irwin's favourite pieces, the trombone solo "Stardust" was played and dedicated to him by his former pupil.

Sadly, his wife Moira died recently, and our thoughts are with his daughters."