A BRASS band is trying to solve an uncanny mystery unearthed during a poignant visit to play in Belgium.
Diggle B Band made their third visit to Ypres this February, having previously visited in 2009 and 2013.
The trips started after the musicians made friends with a band from eastern Belgium who wanted to visit Saddleworth to play in the legendary Whit Friday events.
It was during the return trip in 2013 as Diggle B band played at Tyne Cot cemetery near Ypres and the nearby Menin Gate that the mystery was first uncovered.
Inscribed on the memorial are names of 54,395 allied soldiers who died in World War 1 listed by surname and first initial – and one stood out from the rest: Diggle B.
Robin Bissell, band member, explained: “Once the shock had subsided, members researched the background and discovered the missing hero was Lance Corporal Bertie Diggle of the Leicestershire Yeomanry.
“He died aged just 21 on 13 May 1915 during fierce close fighting in trenches around Ypres.
“We wondered if there is a local connection as it’s not a common name and must have come from this area.
“Also, interestingly his mother’s maiden name was Shaw. We would like to find out if it is all just a coincidence or if he has connections to the area.”
‘Bertie’ has become the band’s adopted son and they commemorate him every time they play ‘Sons of the Brave’.
And they remembered him at the Menin Gate during their visit last month as, with five Belgian friends, they played at the daily Last Post ceremony.
Led by Musical Director David Shipp, the performance of Leigh Baker’s arrangement of ‘Eventide’ created an almost spiritual experience in the enchanting atmosphere of the huge monument.
James Atkins, 18, played soprano cornet wearing RAF medals belonging to his grandfather Ken Redfearn, a former Saddleworth Parish councillor who travelled with the band to Belgium previously.
Jessica Wilson, 17, principal cornet player, captured the breath of the crowd and the emotion of the occasion with the beauty and clarity of the solo parts of the melody.
Olwyn Smith laid a wreath on behalf of the band and the village.
The band also played in concert with Brass Band Haspengouw in the church in Rummen as well as visiting Blankenberge, Flanders and Ghent.
Anyone with advice or information about Bertie Diggle should contact Robin: email: r.bissell@btinternet.com
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