Kerrier Male Choir have paid tribute in a very special way to their longest serving choir member Edwin Frederick Carter as they sang an emotional farewell.

Edwin had been in the choir for 61 years, starting when it was called St Keverne Male Voice Choir, before its name change to Kerrier. He was then 24 years old, and had been a devoted, loyal and dedicated member ever since.

Edwin passed away on April 29 after being taken ill suddenly whilst leaving his house to go to choir practice. He later passed away at the Royal Cornwall Hospital.

He had been singing in the choir the previous night at the International Male Voice Concert at Porthleven Chapel, and this is where his funeral was held on Thursday, May 23.

A full choir sang some of his favourite pieces, including The Lily of the Valley, which Edwin used to sing the solo. This was sung by a very brave Keith Hocking, who normally stood alongside Edwin in the tenor section.

Also sung were The Haven Of Rest as the processional music, Jesus Shall Reign and We Rise Again during the hour-long service, while the recessional music was Morte Christie.

Several members of the congregation also joined in during the singing of When I Survey the Wondrous Cross.

A spokesperson for the choir said: “We will greatly miss this lovely, kind, faithful man, who not only loved his singing and his family, but all nature, birds and animals, and his gift of paintings of them will be treasured by those who were fortunate enough to have one.”

Edwin receiving his 60 years’ service certificate last year  (Image: Kerrier Male Choir)

Choir musical director Janette Eathorne also paid tribute to Edwin on behalf of the choir, recalling his wonderful tenor voice, his amazing fitness, and his “wicked sense of humour”, especially with his two fellow jokers John and Keith.

Edwin was the choir almoner and his writing was always gratefully received with pleasure by anyone who was ill.

He was proud to receive his 60 years’ service certificate last year at St Neot Church.

The choir added: “Dear Edwin, we will never forget you, and your wonderful tenor voice. You have joined the ranks of the heavenly choir, rest in peace.”