Wantage Silver Band

Kenneth James Robey passed away on Monday 11th May 2009 at the age of 88. The Band has lost a long-time member and supporter and was very proud to provide the music at his funeral service, held at West Hendred Church on Saturday 18th May. Ken was born into a banding family, and learnt to play baritone in the Ardington & Lockinge Band. He enlisted as a junior musician on his 15th birthday into the West Berkshire Regiment, becoming a Bandsman when he was 18. Wounded at Dunkirk, he had to leave the army but retained his interest in music playing for several local brass bands. Ken was one of the members of the original Wantage Town Band when, at a meeting called in 1972 to dissolve it and store its instruments, Doug Brand offered to re-form it as a Children's Band. Ken has been our most loyal supporter ever since, both as a euphonium and Eb bass player and latterly as the proud leader of the Band on its many parades through Wantage.
 
The Band playing at the funeral service was limited to 15 players by the small space in the belfry area. Drawn from A, B and Concert Brass bands it included the band's founder, Doug (who spoke about Ken's involvement with the Band), Chairman Eleanor Turner, Bandmaster Eileen Sykes and Helen Wright - one of the 5 initial beginners in 1972! The music include 4 hymns, all favourites of Ken and his family; Young Amadeus was played as the family arrived; the Regimental March "Dashing White Sergeant" with fore and aft drum rolls (Derrick Cain) as Ken was carried out; and the Last Post was beaurtifully played by principal cornet Steve Chapman. Finally 'Bells Across the Meadow' was played after the Church doors closed.
 
Our best wishes go to Maisie, daughter Delia and son Pete. It is hoped to draw together the history of Ken's life and publish it in memory of a fine man, and as an inspiration to others