Final Fanfare for the Late Derek Watkins

Lodge Brothers in Esher were proud to direct the funeral of local trumpet hero Derek Watkins yesterday. Derek passed away at the end of March, after a 2year battle with Sarcoma, a rare form of cancer, with his wife, children and close family at his side.

His colourful international reputation and legendary trumpet playing will mean he will be remembered for generations to come.

Amongst many film score accolades, including Mission Impossible, Gladiator, Indiana Jones and Chicago, Derek had the unique distinction of having played on every one of the James Bond films. His high-note ‘screamers’ were especially notable in Goldfinger, which he recorded at just 19 years of age.

The Watkins family were overwhelmed with local support and messages of condolence from well-wishers.

Derek’s Charity:
In an effort to raise awareness of this rare disease, the family have teamed up with the Sarcoma Charity and Inkdogs.com to launch a T-shirt design. Anyone wishing to support the charity and purchase a T-shirt can do so via Derek’s website at http://www.derekwatkins.co.uk/Derek_Watkins/Dereks_Charity.html