Tributes to smiling chorister Bob, 86

Tributes have been paid to one of the longest-serving members of the Saddleworth Male Voice Choir.

Bob Tutton, from Greenfield, died of a heart attack aged 86 — only days after being presented with a plaque to mark 50 years with the choir.

John Redfearn, who has also been with the choir for half a century himself, said: “He was such a pleasant man, he never had anything other than a big smile on his face.

“In 50 years I never heard him say a bad word about anyone.

“We are so glad, as he was, that we managed to give him the certificate for 50 years, he was so keen to reach that milestone.”

Bob, of Shaw Street, was born in Newport, South Wales, but grew up in Devon.

He was stationed in Japan in the wake of the Hiroshima bombing during the Second World War, and moved to Greenfield on his return.

He went on to marry Eva and have three children, and later wed Freda after becoming a widower.

John said: “He never missed a rehearsal session. He was much-loved and he will be greatly missed.”

Bob’s funeral will be held at Dukinfield Crematorium on Wednesday at 2pm.