The obituary notice of Tom WESTMORELAND

Tom was actually my first school friend, way back in 1972 when we were at Avenue Infants school together. I'm sorry to say that I last saw him back in January 1987; I had just bought a brand new Fender Stratocaster electric guitar and didn't know how to play it, whereas Tom had brought round a beaten up old guitar and ran rings round me! He was typically modest, though - kind and generous, as in all aspects of his life generally. I only received very recently the news of his tragically early passing; my heart goes out to Mike, Jenny and Dan. I never actually had the pleasure to meet Dawn, but obviously I send her my sincerest condolences as well. Tom Westmoreland, a brilliant musician but much more importantly a great friend. I'm moved to tears.

I first met Tom when we were both in our late teens and used to rehearse at Archway studios. Tom used to pop in and jam or even play for 2 hours if we were short of a bass player, such was his love for music. This love of music was only surpassed by his genuine love for people, he would make rehearsals a memorable occasion with his easy nature and surreal humour.

As is often the way in bands, we saw each other only periodically before both embarking on a short-lived project also involving a young Tim Brown. I remember blasting through Dream Theater riffs with Tom in my front room (no easy task) - What a player! This was maybe 1996 and I hadn't seen Tom since. I always wanted to be involved in another project with Tom but alas it never transpired.

However, thanks to Dawn's lovingly prepared photo keepsake (one for everyone at Tom's funeral), I am once again working with Tom as he sits next to a monitor in my recording studio.

Farewell Tom, rest easy.

I can't help but remember you as the Major General in the Pirates of Penzance that we did at Avenue Junior school! I have the photos to prove it! And I still have all the tapes we did when we jammed together in my old bedsit!
Goodbye Tom.

I had the privilege of playing with Tom for a while some years ago; he was easily the best player among us, but also unfailingly reliable, good-humoured and patient. I remember a good and generous man, and a fine musician.

Nick Jones