4BR has been informed that Carlton Main Frickley has announced the departure of professional MD Russell Gray.

Four years

The Scotsman has been at the helm for the past four years, leading them to encouraging results at the major contests, including 6th place at the 2009 National Finals amongst others.

These have been balanced somewhat by less impressive returns too, including 16th place at last year's British Open and 12th place at Brass in Concert.

It is with some sadness that the band has decided to part company with Russell, who has made an outstanding contribution to the Carlton Main since he arrived here in 2006Ray Sykes MBE

Contribution

Band Chairman, Ray Sykes MBE, has commented: "It is with some sadness that the band has decided to part company with Russell, who has made an outstanding contribution to the Carlton Main since he arrived here in 2006."

4BR understands that an announcement concerning a new appointment will be made in the coming week.