Published Date:
26 February 2010
By Paul Fielding
MOURNERS gathered in Lytham to celebrate the life of a man dedicated to music.
Organist Raymond Wallbank died last week, aged 77, following a long battle with cancer.
The musician played 30 seasons in the famous Lounge Bar at North Pier before opening a popular music shop and studios on Woodlands Road, Ansdell, in the 1970s.
His funeral was held yesterday at St Cuthbert's Church, Church Road, Lytham, before a family ceremony at nearby Park Cemetery.
A white horse-drawn hearse was used to transport him through Lytham town centre to the service – to end a life on stage with a theatrical flourish. Mr Wallbank, who recorded three organ records, was born in Lytham in 1932 to a music teacher mother and produce merchant father.
He went to Ansdell County Primary School before attending King Edward VII School in Fairhaven.
The organist taught hundreds of children how to play the organ in lessons at his Ansdell shop.
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Last Updated:
26 February 2010 1:23 PM
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Source:
Blackpool Gazette
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Location:
Blackpool
