The obituary notice of Andrew James BILHAM

I have only just heard about Andy and I am very sorry to have missed it earlier. He and I were in the Pirates of Penzance at Redruth Grammar School in 1976. I moved away from Cornwall for many years before returning in 2021. Although we kept in touch occasionally, I regret that we didn’t meet up after I moved back. Requiescat in pace.
Jeffrey Williams

Andy will always be recalled as a most willing volunteer with a strong community spirit who gave his time and effort willingly. Always ready with a trowel, brush or spade Andy joined in many ‘clean ups’ at various locations in the village and gave his efforts to make Lanner a brighter place.

This however was by no means the end of his commitment and for many years he has diligently assisted with all aspects of the of sparkle of Christmas Lights. Andy was frequently found on freezing Saturdays in November guiding towers to just the right spot, offering support and ballast as another volunteer climbed to attach parts of the lights display and all the while maintaining the best humour and encouragement to the team. More recent years have seen him as officer in chief while unravelling the countless strings of lights that then needed careful weaving around the tree. Andy possessed his own knack with this task and always seemed able to advise which branch would offer best support!

The pinnacle of all the efforts was enjoyed on switch on night. Andy played such a key role in creating the atmosphere as he led the Samba Cambada band, brightly lit, creating a strident beat and ensuring the parade arrived at the playing field at the opportune time. The entertainment continued, he met old and new friends and brought a special warmth through music on usually chilly nights.

Andy - thank you for lighting up Lanner.

Andy will always be recalled as a most willing volunteer with a strong community spirit who gave his time and effort willingly. Always ready with a trowel, brush or spade Andy joined in many ‘clean ups’ at various locations in the village and gave his efforts to make Lanner a brighter place.

This however was by no means the end of his commitment and for many years he has diligently assisted with all aspects of the of sparkle of Christmas Lights. Andy was frequently found on freezing Saturdays in November guiding towers to just the right spot, offering support and ballast as another volunteer climbed to attach parts of the lights display and all the while maintaining the best humour and encouragement to the team. More recent years have seen him as officer in chief while unravelling the countless strings of lights that then needed careful weaving around the tree. Andy possessed his own knack with this task and always seemed able to advise which branch would offer best support!

The pinnacle of all the efforts was enjoyed on switch on night. Andy played such a key role in creating the atmosphere as he led the Samba Cambada band, brightly lit, creating a strident beat and ensuring the parade arrived at the playing field at the opportune time. The entertainment continued, he met old and new friends and brought a special warmth through music on usually chilly nights.

Andy - thank you for lighting up Lanner.

A truly wonderful man who will be missed by all. John & Barb xx