"It is with much regret that I have been requested by the family to convey to the Society, the sad news of the sudden death of Charioteer Bill Bannister of Plymouth. Bill was a good friend of Falmouth and a proud participant of the Annual Service. This year's Service would have been the occasion which Bill had chosen to be presented with the Chevalier in the Ordre national de la Legion d'honneur. Falmouth is in shock and will mourn for the loss of a true gentleman. He was respected by all who had the privilege to know him."