This very sad news has just been forwarded via SEFAN

"It is with great sadness that today (17/3/06) we received the news that Howard Evans has lost his long battle with cancer. He died early this morning.

The Folk scene has lost the best trumpeter and brass arranger it has ever had. The music world has lost a great friend, musician, negotiator (his MU day job) and all round good bloke. Our deepest sympathy to his family.

Officials at the Musicians Union will publicise details of funeral and/or memorial if that is what Howard's family wishes.

Please spread the word to anyone who knew Howard.

Steve Heap
Director, Folk Arts England"

The last time I saw Brass Monkey it was without Howard, and his presence in the lineup was very sorely missed. At that time we were asking after him, and news was that he was still poorly but hopefully recovering.... sadly time has obviously proved otherwise. Many sympathies to his family.