Thursday, October 29, 2015

Tony Van Frater: RIP

Tony Van Frater with the Cockney Rejects this summer in Seattle. (There's Something Hard in There photo)

According to the Hartlepool Mail in the UK and myriad band Facebook pages, Tony Van Frater has passed away at the age of 51, reportedly of a heart attack.

He was the founding guitarist of Red Alert in 1979 and was the Cockney Rejects' bassist since 1999. He also played with the Angelic Upstarts.

The Cockney Rejects placed a black ribbon on its official Facebook page.

Red Alert singer Steve Castiron Smith wrote on his Facebook page: "Best mate,brother,legend,thanks for the memories son,see u up there."

The Angelic Upstarts Facebook page reads: "With deepest condolences to his partner and family, we are heartbroken that former band member, superb guitarist, wonderful friend and all round nice guy Tony Van Frater has tragically passed away."

On the Peter and the Test Tube Babies official Facebook page: "We are very saddened by the totally unexpected and terrible news of Tony’s death. He will be sorely missed by us and everyone in the punk community.
R.I.P. Tony."

The Rebellion Punk Music Festival Facebook paged notes: "Terrible news this morning. Tony Van Frater has passed away overnight. The founding member of Red Alert and Cockney Rejects bass player was one of the scenes true gentlemen. His talent and friendship will be missed by many. RIP big man - our thoughts are with your family and friends."

2 comments:

  1. Peter and the test tube babies is the great page.
    It is said to hear about this bad news.
    RIP

    ReplyDelete
  2. r.I.p. He was a great bass player. He actually sounded better w the Rejects than ole Vince R did. He died as he lived. carry on oi!!

    ReplyDelete