THE Oxford-based jazz, blues and soul guitarist Peter Galpin died last month aged 62, after losing a brave fight with mesothelioma.

Born in Cheadle, South Manchester, Mr Galpin began playing in public from the age of 14, sneaking away from home to play in working men’s clubs.

One of his early bands was on the same bill as John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers, and he later played with Memphis Slim.

After graduating at Bristol University, Mr Galpin taught general studies at Salisbury College then moved to Leeds to conduct research into economic sociology.

After moving to Oxfordshire, Mr Galpin became well known in the Oxford music scene, participating in many community projects including the Pensioners’ Club and the Cowley Road Carnival.

His friend Tony Jezzard, of Reservoir Cats said: “Peter was a restless intellectual and musical spirit, sometimes challenging but always generous with his time and opinions.

“He was an accomplished guitarist and musician — his knowledge of jazz theory and chords was unrivalled and at times daunting.”

Dai Amos who played with Mr Galpin in Blues Rumour, said: “Peter had a unique laid-back style, part groove, part jazz which he enjoyed playing at various venues in Oxford.

“He could often be found hanging out at the Music Box, talking politics in the Excelsior, and jamming at the Chester.”

Mr Galpin was diagnosed with mesothelioma in January and was stoic throughout the chemotherapy regime. He had worked with asbestos while working on a building site for a few months before going to university.

He is survived by his brother Fran and his four sisters, Rosemary, Kathy, Angela and Maggie.

A benefit concert is to be held in February to raise funds for The Mesothelioma UK Charitable Trust.