Bernard Stanley `` Acker '' Bilk , ( 28 January 1929 -- 2 November 2014 ) was an English clarinettist and vocalist known for his appearance -- goatee , bowler hat and striped waistcoat -- and breathy , vibrato-rich , lower-register clarinet style .
Bernard Stanley `` Acker '' Bilk MBE ( 28 January 1929 -- 2 November 2014 ) was an English clarinettist and vocalist . He was known for his trademark goatee , bowler hat , striped waistcoat and breathy , vibrato-rich , lower-register clarinet style .