TRIBUTES have been pouring in following the passing on Thursday of former Field Marshal Montgomery pipe major Ricky Newell, who wore the stripes between 1975 and 1981. Ricky, who was 74, was the band's third pipe major after Billy Maxwell and sandy Cumming.
He was pivotal to the building process at FMM before being succeeded by richard Parkes.
He had an impeccable leadership CV in pipe banding, and until last season, despite his advancing years, was still involved, helping out the
Gilnahirk band. He was also a past pipe major at Dromara. Ricky, a true gentleman with an incredible passion for pipe bands, led Field Marshal to the grade three world championship title at Hawick in 1976, when most of the band members stayed in tents (changed times from these days).
Among those leading the tributes was present FMM boss Parkes' wife Ruth, who said: "Richard and i would like to pass on our condolences to Ricky's family at this sad time.
"Ricky helped Richard learn his trade as a pipe major, and he has many fond memories."
His passing comes just three months after the death of Billy Maxwell, who was FMM's first pipe major and latterly its president.
* PIVOTAL: Rickey Newell, pictured in middle row, second from right, who has passed away aged 74