Butlins Mineworkers Champion, Desford Colliery, has announced the appointment of John Ward as Resident Conductor.

The former flugel player of Rothwell Temperance and current Musical Director of Co-operative Milnrow Band, John's association with Desford started in 2008 when he was part of their All England Masters victory.

Great opportunity

John Ward told 4BR: "It's great to have the opportunity to take on this role with one of the best bands in the world, and to work with Desford’s superb team of players and professional conductors."

It's great to have the opportunity to take on this role with one of the best bands in the world, and to work with Desford’s superb team of players and professional conductorsJohn Ward

Potential

Peter Smith, Desford’s band manager added: "John is a conductor with huge potential. The players are very impressed with what they have seen and heard in rehearsals and we all look forward to seeing how this relationship develops."

John’s work with Co-operative Milnrow Band will continue unaffected.