It is with great sadness that I write to you, the Fairport Family, on behalf of MY family, to share the news of the passing of my Dad, John (Ben) Bennion. It is clear that his experience of performing at the 1991 Cropredy Festival with Freeway Jam was a real turning point for him and the band, inspiring him to embark on writing many beautiful songs. I’m acutely aware that the members of Fairport admired him greatly for his gravelly-soulful voice and his touch as a rhythm guitarist (leading to his guest appearance with Robert Plant and Fairport in 1993). However, most of all, they believed in his insightful and compassionate compositions, two of which they beautifully recorded….Diamonds & Gold and Waiting For The Tide. On behalf of my Dad, I’d like to thank you all for your kind friendship over the decades. His funeral is at 14:00 at Banbury Crematorium on Wednesday 15th April. Blessings, Jim Bennion & Family (Ellie, Fran & Mick) x