THERE could not have been a more fitting tribute than to have the sound of a saxophone fill the church for the funeral of David ‘Mr Jazz’ Knight.

The 79-year-old Bishopstone resident, who died last month after suffering from a short illness, had an encyclopedic knowledge of jazz, breadth of musical contacts and sheer enthusiasm which propelled the Swindon jazz scene into prominence.

And yesterday around 100 people filled St Mary’s Church in Bishopstone to bid a fond farewell to the 'larger than life' character, followed by a wake and memorial concert at Baker Street Jazz Club.

As a nod to his love of the genre his casket was carried into the church as solo tenor saxophonist Simon Spillett performed. While Stan Getz's It Might As Well Be Spring was played later on.

Rev William O’Connell, who led the church service, also urged the congregation to remember, enjoy and treasure their memories of David.

“We have all come here with our own stories,” he said. “Stories that David helped etch into our hearts and minds and now we will think of them as a legacy. Be that love of music, football, friends or family.

“David touched the lives of many people through his knowledge and enthusiasm for jazz and support and encouragement for musicians. David wanted everyone to listen to jazz and enjoy his passion.

“He lived life to the full and had a full life.”

One of the memories that brought laughter to the congregation was the story of when David received a mankini as a Christmas present from one of his granddaughters and put it over his trousers and paraded around the living room.

His love of football, having been manager of the village football club True Hearts and previously Windsor Rovers, was also mentioned.

And many of the youngsters he coached went on to work with him at a biscuit factory in Slough where he was catering manager. He mentored them and helped get them their first jobs.

“He did what they could for them,” Rev O’Connell added. “They experienced his kindness and generosity.”

David also used to organise weekly gigs at three pubs in the Swindon area, including the Prince of Wales in Shrivenham.

And it was almost 30 years ago that David starting living with wife Wendy after moving to the area and meeting her in the village. He grew up in Windsor and was previously married to Hilda.

In his later years he loved travelling, going on cruises, spending time with his family, as well as an annual trip to Center Parcs.

And he was very proud of all his grandchildren’s achievements and watching them grow and have families, graduate, have successful careers and buy their first homes.

David’s seven grandchildren read a short and emotional poem during the service, holding back the tears and taking it in turn to say: “We want you to know you meant the world to us. In life we loved you dearly and in death we love you still.

"You fought so hard to stay.”