SABBAT vocalist Martin Walkyier, also known for his work with SKYCLAD and THE CLAN DESTINED, has issued the following tribute to his father, who passed away on February 25th:

"Greetings sisters and brothers! It is with a deep feeling of sadness that I write these words to inform you all of the recent death of my father, who finally passed-away in hospital following a long illness on the evening of Sunday the 25th of February 2007.

Roy Orlando Walkyier was a kind and loving husband, father and grandfather, who will be greatly missed by the members of my family as well as all those who knew him personally. He was also the oldest and amongst the most dedicated members of The Clan Destined. His steadfast support and encouragement during very difficult times was undoubtedly one of the main reasons that I was actually able to finish the TCD demo recordings for you all to hear. Roy was always a constant source of fatherly encouragement to me during every stage of my musical career; from the very beginning to the early days of Sabbat, through my many years in Skyclad and then recently with The Clan Destined project. Without him being behind me it is highly unlikely that I would have been able to do any of the many albums and concerts I have recorded and played for your entertainment over the last two decades.

I promised Roy on his death-bed that I would carry-on with my work in whatever way possible, and that I shall one day complete something truly very special indeed, which I shall dedicate to him as a lasting tribute to his memory. I would like to kindly ask all those among you who have followed my work and been influenced in any way by the music I have made over the years to assist me in this noble quest. Roy was without a doubt a unique human being, greatly loved by all who knew him; and the world is now a sadder and emptier place without him in it. I take consolation from the fact that he is now finally at peace, and that one fine day I shall meet him again in Valhalla.

May your guardian-spirits be with you always!"

Martin Walkyier

For information on Walkyier's activities go to www.theclandestined.com.