TV band leader and top drummer Parnell dies

Parnell provided the music for shows such as Sunday Night At The London Palladium and conducted the orchestra for The Muppet Show.

He also wrote the theme tunes to programmes including The Golden Shot during his long spell as musical director at ATV.

He died at home in Southwold, Suffolk, yesterday following a year-long battle with cancer. He had also suffered from lung disorder chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Parnell had a musical career stretching almost seven decades, which saw him declared best drummer in the annual Melody Maker awards for many years and a distinguished stint as drummer in the renowned Ted Heath Band, during which he formed his own ensemble.

He continued to perform until three years ago, playing jazz near his home in Suffolk.

His wife Veronica said: "He just used to love to tap away."

Parnell died just two days after his birthday.

His son Will – also a composer – said: "He was determined to make it to see his birthday."

London-born Parnell had performance in his blood – his father was a music hall artist while his uncle Val ran a string of theatres including the London Palladium.

He made his debut as a teenage drummer on the seafront at Scarborough.

When ITV launched, he landed the role of musical director for ATV – for which Parnell's uncle Val was by now managing director.

He worked with legends such as Ella Fitzgerald, Sammy Davis Jr, Lena Horne and Nat King Cole.

He also made series with Tom Jones and Engelbert Humperdinck, and was musical director for programmes such as The Benny Hill Show.