West Somerset Brass Band's tribute to Peter Wilson

Additionally, a memorial plaque marking his incredible 70 years playing in the band was unveiled underneath the cherry tree at St Decuman’s Church, Watchet, by his widow Jean and son Robert.

The tributes were commissioned jointly by the band and the Watchet and Saint Renan Twinning Society, of which Peter was chairman for more than 20 years.

Tributes at the unveiling ceremony were led by Marilyn Binding on behalf of the twinning society and by long-time band colleague and friend Pete Owen for the band.

As the plaque was unveiled, the band played two of Peter's favourite hymns, Nearer My God to Thee and The Old Rugged Cross, while Over the Rainbow was performed following a request from his family.

During his long and impressive band career, Peter held many positions ranging from secretary, chairman, music librarian and deputy conductor.

He was a skilled musician and played a number of instruments, including the trombone and the solo cornet.

All these many accomplishments aside, perhaps one of the main legacies Peter leaves behind is his unwavering encouragement and support for generations of young players, including running a learner group in his own time to teach people to play.

West Somerset Brass Band chairman Jodie Watson said she is just one of the many players who are grateful to Peter for his guidance and friendship.

She added: “Obviously, while we are all very sad today to think that Peter is no longer with us, it is a great privilege for us to remember just how much happiness he brought, both to the band and to the wider Watchet and St Renan communities.

"Peter taught me and many others to play and introduced us to the fun of brass banding.

"We- will always be grateful to him for that and we will continue his tradition of bringing on new players.”

In August, the band will again visit Watchet’s twin town of St. Renan, in Brittany, which will act as another fitting tribute to "the great bandsman".