Obituary – James Henry Finch (1920-2000)
It is with great sadness that the band recently learned of the death of its oldest member, “Harry” Finch, who died at home on January 25th at the age of 79.
Harry was one of the founding members of the current band when it reformed in 1964. Over the following 28 years he was a staunch and committed bandsman who never missed a rehearsal in all that time. He retired as a playing member in 1992 but continued to support the band whenever he could.
Whilst not one to boast about his past, Harry was one of the many unsung heroes of the Second World War. As a naval officer he served continuously at sea from March 1939 to January 1946 when he was released from the services.
He was one of the first officers trained in the new sonar techniques that became so critical in the fight against the submarine forces which devastated British merchant shipping.
He served on many vessels including HMSs Royal Arthur, Deahe 1, Osthrey, Viceroy, Nimrod, Berry Head, and Pembroke. His pride was that he served on HMS Walney from 1941 until it was sunk at the end of 1942. As one of only two surviving crew he was honoured by the Royal Navy and attended both the launch and commissioning of the replacement Walney in the early 90s.
In total he was “sunk” five times during the war yet still he went back for more despite the fact he could not swim – not without merit was he known as an ‘obstinate old toad’ by those who loved him. Music was his life and besides brass bands his love was opera. It was fitting therefore that music from Tosca was played at his funeral and the band was privileged to play the hymns. As a final tribute the Band’s musical director, Ian Lanceley, sent him on his way with the last post.
We shall remember you Harry.