Tributes to singer

Kenneth Smith (far right) at the recent cheque presentation with (from the left) Alan Travis, from St Andrew’s, Christine Harrop, from Dr Kershaw’s, and musical director Diane Dunning

TRIBUTES have been paid following the suddent death of the longest-serving member of Oldham’s Trinity Singers.

Great-grandfather Kenneth Smith (80) collapsed at his home in Coppice on January 28. He was treasurer and chairman of the group for more than 20 years.

Four days before his death, he joined other members to present a cheque for £1,000 that the group had raised for Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, Royton. They also made a £500 donation to St Andrew’s Methodist Church, where they practise.

Mr Smith was 16 when he joined the then Trinity Methodist Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society with his father when it reformed after the Second World War.

In 1980, he was awarded a merit medal by the National Operatic and Dramatic Association for outstanding services to amateur theatre.

His wife, Margaret, is also a member of Trinity Singers while their daughter Gillian, a past member, nominated him for a Pride in Oldham Award in 2006. Mr Smith also leaves a son, David, three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Diane Dunning, Trinity Singers musical director, said: “He was always joking, smiling and full of fun. He is going to be so missed.

“We do 12 to 14 concerts a year raising money for charity, from luncheon clubs with Age Concern to evening concerts.

“Whenever they could be, Kenneth and Margaret were there. Kenneth even came in on his 80th birthday.”

The funeral will take place at Oldham Crematorium, Hollinwood, at 1pm on Wednesday.