Fundraiser and music pioneer dies



Brian Jeffery

Tributes have flooded in after the sudden death of a tireless charity fundraiser, RAF worker, health care professional and music promoter from Chorley.

Brian 'BJ' Jeffery lost his battle with an aggressive form of motor neurone disease on Saturday, July 12, at the age of 51.

The much-loved father-of-one from Yarrowgate, in Chorley, was well known for raising thousands of pounds for charities and he was one of the first reflexology practitioners setting up Harmonious Healthcare in the town.

He also served in the RAF during the Falklands War but his most enduring legacy has been his passion for live music.

Around two years ago, Brian set up Chorley's first and only blues club at the Red Cat before it moved to the Hop Pocket, in Carr Lane.

This week, friends, family and musicians from across the globe have all lined up to pay tribute to an 'incredible man.'

Choking back tears, his wife Pat Jeffery said: "Everything he did, he did with passion and he loved life so much - he's irreplaceable.

"Brian touched a lot of people's lives though his reflexology, his charity work and, of course, his music.

"To us he was a wonderful husband and daddy. He was such a kind, loving, genuine and big-hearted person."

A funeral service will be held at Charnock Richard Crematorium at 2.15pm on Monday, July 21.

The family have requested that donations be made to the University of Edinburgh Development Trust for motor neurone diseases research