Foden's has provided 4BR with their official statement over the departure of MD Garry Cutt from the band.

They also reveal that they have secured the services of three high profile conductors to take the band to the English National, British Open and National Championships.

...the dismissal is mainly due to Garry's refusal to conduct the band at the forthcoming English National contest, and also a number of issues raised by band members at a recent band meetingFoden's Band

Press Release:

The press release to 4BR is as follows:

"Following Garry Cutt's exclusive interview to 4barsrest, Foden's Band can confirm that following a meeting with Garry on Wednesday, a further meeting took place with the committee on Thursday.

Following this, the band parted company with Garry prior to Thursday's band rehearsal, which Garry was not engaged to conduct.

Following Garry's recent interview with 4barsrest, Foden's Band disagree with a number of comments made by Garry, but do not wish to enter into a 'press debate' over the reasons for their decision.

Foden's will state that the dismissal is mainly due to Garry's refusal to conduct the band at the forthcoming English National contest, and also a number of issues raised by band members at a recent band meeting where we were unable to find a compromise with Garry at Wednesday's meeting.

Foden's are sad that after an extremely successful six years with the band that the relationship has come to an end, and would like to wish Garry good luck in his future endeavours.

Following on from Garry's departure Fodens are extremely pleased to announce that they were then able to secure the services of three experienced and highly respected conductors for the forthcoming contests.

James Gourlay has been engaged to conduct Foden's at the English National, Howard Snell makes a welcome return to the band to conduct at the British Open and Allan Withington will conduct at the National Finals in October.

Bram Tovey has also been engaged to conduct a high profile concert with Foden's and possible CD recording this year.

Associate conductor Mike Fowles will continue to lead the band in their concert and general rehearsal schedule

There will be no further comment on this matter and the band committee see this matter as closed."