Band’s shock over musician lost at sea
BAND members have spoken of their shock and sadness after a 90- yearold Valley sailor went missing off the Welsh coast.
Arthur Roy Taylor, known as Archie, from Waterfoot, was last seen at 9.30am on Saturday, when he left his accommodation to take his dinghy out from Gwbert Boat Club in Ceredigion.
His boat was found empty that evening after he failed to return, prompting a large multiagency search and rescue operation by land and sea.
A search of shoreline in the area on Sunday evening was unsuccessful and the Coastguard said no further searches were being planned.
The talented saxophonist regularly performed with the 2nd Rossendale Scout Group and Band for the last 10 years and last played in front of a packed audience at St Mary’s Church in Rawtenstall on March 31.
The Free Press reported how in February how he took part in the annual ‘ Hearts and Voices Concert’ in aid of Rossendale Hospice and played a stirring rendition of the classic song ‘Autumn Leaves’.
Graham Helm, musical director, said everybody in the band is dev- astated at the news.
The 42-year-old from Bacup told the Free Press: “It was a great shock to all players in the band and as events unfolded over the weekend it was a very sad thing. We have got a rehearsal on Wednesday night where we will talk about it and play a tune for him and the band will have to rebuild.
“He will leave a big hole. He was 90 but when he had a saxophone in his hand he became a kid all over again.
“When he was performing he was alive with the music. He was a tremendous musician and a fantastic talent and a joy to work with.
“He was an all round nice guy and really enthusiastic. There’s a great feeling of loss in the band. We became part of his wider family.”
Dyfed-Powys Police are appealing for any photos or video of the coastal area to help with their investigation.
A force spokesperson said: “Mr Taylor’s boat has been located, but Mr Taylor is still unaccounted for. His family continue to be supported by local officers.”
Grey- haired Mr Taylor, who is 5ft 4ins tall and of slim build, was wearing a navy jumper and a dark grey waterproof jacket.
Sightings or information can be reported to police on 101 and quoting incident reference 251 of April 15.