4BR has been informed that following the departure of Foden’s MD Garry Cutt, soprano player Alan Wycherley has also tendered his resignation from the band with immediate effect.

Disappointment

Speaking exclusively to 4BR, Alan spoke of immense disappointment at Foden’s decision to dispense with the MDs services, after a five years of what he called 'unprecedented success'.

"I have resigned from Foden’s today," Alan said. "It’s been a very difficult decision to make after 10 fantastic years with the band, but I felt I had no other choice to make. Garry has led the band through five years of unprecedented success, and I felt he was the ideal man to lead Foden’s for many more years to come."

I believe it was the wrong decision to make, and whilst I have the greatest of respect for everyone at Foden’s, I could not agree with the way in which it was doneAlan Wycherley

Comeback

Alan has been recovering at home following his recent heart attack, but following the all clear from his doctors was due to make his long awaited comeback with the Brass in Concert champion as they sought to retain their Tameside Whit Friday title for a ninth successive year.

Respect

"I had been looking forward to returning to the band in time for Whit Friday and the English National, but the news of Garry’s departure made that impossible. I believe it was the wrong decision to make, and whilst I have the greatest of respect for everyone at Foden’s, I could not agree with the way in which it was done."

Still playing

The shock news does not mean that Alan is thinking of hanging up his playing boots however – far from it.

"I am still itching to get back playing at the highest level, but it will not be with Foden’s," he said.

"Richard Poole has done a wonderful job for the band in my absence and I couldn’t think of anyone better to fill my boots there, but I still have the desire to play for many more years yet at the highest level. The doctors have given me a clean bill of health and I’m raring to go."

Friends

He concluded, "What has happened at Foden’s has been a major disappointment, but I still wish them all the very best for the future. They remain some of the greatest friends I have made in my long banding career."