TRIBUTES have been paid to folk musician Paul Sartin from Whitchurch who sadly died earlier this week.

The Bellowhead violinist and oboist, who was a highly-regarded performer, composer, arranger and teacher, died on Wednesday, September 14, aged 51.

He was the co-founder of the Whitchurch Folk Club and musical director of the Andover Museum Loft Singers.

He was also the founding member of the award-winning ensembles Belshazzar’s Feast and Faustus.

The news was confirmed by Paul’s family, Angela, James, Will and Joe, on the Facebook page of Good Honest Music – Paul’s booking agency.

In tribute, they said: “It is with great sadness that we must announce the passing of our beloved Paul, who left us unexpectedly yesterday evening.

“We know that he was someone who brought wonderful music into your lives, and that so many of you counted him as a close and dear friend.

“We have lost a son and a father, and while we ask now that we are allowed to mourn Paul in private, we understand that many of you will have lovely memories that you would like to share."

Posting on Twitter, Bellowhead said: “The whole band are totally devastated to have to let you all know about the passing of our beloved Paul Sartin.

"We were so privileged to share a stage with this masterful musician and good, good friend. Our heartfelt thoughts go out to his mother and the boys he was so proud of.”