WANTAGE Silver Band’s figurehead Kenneth Robey has died after a short illness.

Mr Robey, was born in Grove on July 25, 1920, and died in Wantage’s Community Hospital, on Monday May 11.

The 88-year-old, of East Hanney, followed in the musical footsteps of his father Arthur and brother Steve.

Both played in the village Brass Band — his father on the euphonium and brother on the tenor horn.

Mr Robey began playing instruments at five and went on to join the Royal Berkshire Regiment as a boy soldier in 1935.

He saw active service in France and Belgium early in the Second World War, but was invalided out after being wounded just before Dunkirk.

After war work as a driver at Milton Depot – when he met his future wife Maisie – he went on to work at AERE Harwell, retiring in 1982 following a heart attack.

He joined Wantage Silver Band in 1972 and became its figurehead leading the band in parades.

Those who knew him described him as cheerful, courteous and enthusiastic, with a beaming smile.

He also had a wealth of knowledge about brass music activities in the Wantage area.

Mr Robey, who had four brothers and two sisters, leaves two children, four grandchildren, one step grandchild and a great granddaughter.

Before his passing, he had chosen the entry and exit music for his funeral at West Hendred, on Saturday.