Cherry tree and graveside performance in tribute to West Somerset Brass Band founder

MEMBERS of West Somerset Brass Band have planted and dedicated a Japanese cherry tree in memory of founder-member Peter Wilson, who played in the band for 70 years.

A memorial plaque was also unveiled beneath the cherry tree at St Decuman’s Church by his widow Jean and son Robert, which was commissioned jointly by the band and the Watchet-Saint Renan Twinning Society.

Mr Wilson, who died in 2022, was chairman of the twinning society for more than 20 years.

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

As the plaque was unveiled, the band played two of Mr Wilson’s favourite hymns, Nearer My God to Thee and The Old Rugged Cross, as well as Over the Rainbow as a request from his family. 

During his band career Mr Wilson held many positions, including secretary, chairman, music librarian, and deputy conductor.

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

As well as such accomplishments, one of Mr Wilson’s main legacies is his unwavering encouragement and support of generations of young players, including running a learner group in his own time to teach people to play.

Band chairman Jodie Watson, who is just one of many players who were grateful to Mr Wilson for his guidance and friendship, said: “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/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 be another fitting tribute to their great bandsman.