It is with deep regret that we report the death of one of our founder members Kenneth Harrison, aged 77, who died at Tameside General Hospital on 29th February 2008. His funeral was held at the Mossley Methodist Church on Monday 10th March, when a band consisting of players from the present Mossley Band and founder members of the band played at his service.

He is survived by his son Paul and his wife Jenny, son Phillip and his wife Pauline, daughter Susan and her husband Martin, and granddaughters Katie, Sarah, Abigail, Becky and Charlotte.

Ken started his banding career in the late 1940s with the Mossley Borough Band when they were reformed under the baton of the late Frank Andrew. Like a lot of youngsters who commenced their banding careers in the band, he was keen to learn. His choice of instrument was the Bass G-Trombone (the one with the long slide with a handle) and along with Harold Robinson and the late Ron Ibbotson became part of what was to become a formidable trombone section.

In 1955, after a spell with Hyde British Legion Band, Ken joined the present Mossley Band as a founder member. He enjoyed many successes with the band and was a fine and reliable player. When Ken retired from playing due to family business commitments, he was presented with his G-trombone as a token of gratitude. He never lost interest in the band and banding, and with his wife Renee was a committee member and tireless worker for the 'Top Mossley Whit Friday Band Contest' which he adjudicated in 2003, and continued to work for this and other charitable organizations until ill health struck him in December 2007.

Ken was a kind, likeable and friendly man who would help anyone. He was a truly gentle man! He will be very sadly missed by a great many people in Mossley and the surrounding area.