TRIBUTES have been paid to one of the founders and the 'driving force' of a local brass band.

Peter Crawford died peacefully at home in Burneside on Tuesday September 5, leaving his wife, Judy, his three sons Steven, David, and Stuart, his nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

In March 1993 Mr Crawford, alongside Bill Turton, decided to form a brass band in Burneside after two local bands folded.

Musical director of Burneside Brass Band Dave Higson, who joined the band in 2010, said Mr Crawford was a 'driving force' within the band.

He said: "He really enjoyed playing with the band. We went to the national finals twice, and he took great pride in that. 

"Sadly he became ill a few years ago and wasn't able to play in the final years of his life, but he was still into what went on with the band.

Mr Higson remember him as a 'gentle and loyal man' who never had a 'bad word to say about anybody.'

He added: "He was very family-orientated. Everyone who knew him loved him. He was a figure in the community of Burneside.

"On the day of his funeral, we put a band together of present and past members, and Peter made his final journey to Beetham Crematorium as he arrived the ensemble played Eventideas.

"As he was carried into the building the band played How Great Thou Art. Peter played How Great Thou Art as a solo item at President's evenings and it was one of his favourite pieces.

"All members of the band will miss Peter however his legacy lives on with the current main band and young players of the training band."

He was also a Burneside Crown Green Bowling Club club member for almost twenty years and was invited to become an Honorary Member of the club at the Club's Annual General Meeting in 2022.