TRIBUTES have been paid to a well-known musician from Accrington who has died.

Tony Cooper was part of The Soundcasters group which had performed in the town since 1963 and their most recent gig was on December 14.

The former Accrington Grammar School pupil died earlier this week after suffering a heart attack.

Cllr Peter Britcliffe, who lives in Oswaldtwistle, had happy memories of Tony.

He said: “I actually went to school with him and we were in the same class at Accrington Grammar School.

“He was a very lively and interesting person at school and loved to make others laugh and was a great lad.

“It is awfully sad to hear about him dying.

“It has come as a shock to me and others to hear about his death because he was such a vibrant person.

“Tony was very friendly and he made a huge contribution to life in Hyndburn through the Soundcasters.

“He was very involved in the community and liked to support good causes too.

“My thoughts are with his friends and family at this sad time.”

Gary Britland from Church paid tribute to the musician.

He said: “He was a true gentleman always happy to help people.

“He was an ambassador for Accrington’s music scene as the band had been together for decades covering 60 and 70s scene.

“I asked him to do Accrington Lions Carnival and he was on the committee for the next carnival.

“He will be sadly missed a great friend condolences to the family at this time.”

Deborah Clark, chief executive of Community Solutions North West said: “We are saddened to hear about the passing of Tony Cooper. He was a great guy.

“Tony and the Soundcasters played free of charge at our Charity Annual Summer Fair this year.

“They were fantastic and Tony was fabulous to work with. There were lots of laughs and great music. We send our love and condolences to his family.”

More tributes have been paid on Tony’s Facebook page.

Kimberley Whitehead wrote: “Heaven has another angel. Our dear friend, neighbour and utter legend.

“My heart is breaking. Thoughts with friends and family.”

Donna Lawrenson wrote: “Never a good time to lose someone but Christmas is supposed to be a happy time.

“Hope your family are remembering all the good times and laughter you have given them. RIP Tony.”

Andy Richards, from Accrington, added: “Tony was a brilliant musician as leader of The Soundcasters, a good friend and a truly lovely man.

“The world will not be the same without one of life’s true characters and real gentlemen and my thoughts are with his family, especially Tony’s beloved granddaughters. Farewell, you good, good man.”