Malcolm Wreford, a driving force behind Long Melford Royal British Legion Corps of Drums, had died from cancer a few days earlier.

On Saturday the band, wearing black ribbons, marched down the village's main street at the start of the annual fair.

At the end of the parade onlookers joined them in a minute's silence in tribute to Lt Col Wreford – their former secretary and cymbal player – who was made honorary president two months ago.

Long Melford's parish clerk, Linda Goodban, said: "The band marched in his honour and at the end, standards were dipped and everyone stood in silence.

"People were moved to tears. It was an amazing tribute to a wonderful man."

Lt Col Wreford and his wife Audrey, of Chadburn Road, Long Melford have been closely involved with rebuilding the village's Royal British Legion branch and club.

He was treasurer until ill health forced him to give up earlier this year. But after being diagnosed with terminal lung and brain cancer the former senior officer in the Army Cadet Force bravely appealed for a successor to take over while he was well enough to train them.

Four years ago when the Corps of Drums, which used to be run by the Air Training Corps, was threatened with closure he arranged for them to transfer to the Legion.

They will play for him for the last time tomorrow, when they lead a procession to his funeral service, at Holy Trinity Church, Long Melford at 2pm.