The British Federation of Brass Bands has informed 4BR that they are encouraging bands to send registration and transfer documents to the British Brass Band Registry as normal, despite the fact that remaining staff at the organisation have publically stated that they have taken industrial action.

Normal manner

In a statement released today, the BFBB has said as they have not been informed of such action themselves, they therefore cannot make any specific comment other than to encourage bands to send documents to the Registry in ‘the normal manner’.

No new Line Manager has been put in place to replace Frank Hodges.

Contest organisers

4BR understands from sources that bands are being encouraged to contact contest organisers direct to ensure any potential problems are highlighted in advance so that contingency plans can be put in place.

Nationals

Philip Morris, of the National Championships told 4BR: "At present we would ask that bands still send registration enquiries direct to the British Brass Band Registry.

However, if the dispute is not resolved in the near future I will contact all appropriate bands with alternative arrangements for the National Championship contests."

However, if the dispute is not resolved in the near future I will contact all appropriate bands with alternative arrangements for the National Championship contestsPhilip Morris

BFBB statement

The BFBB Executive Committee statement reads:

The British Federation of Brass Bands (BFBB) confirms that Mr. Frank Hodges has been removed from the Executive Committee of the BFBB under Rule 8 (3) of the Constitution, which states “absence without permission of the Executive Committee from their meetings held within a period of six months and the Executive Committee resolve that his/her office be vacated”.

Mr. Hodges has also been relieved of his position as Line Manager of the Registry Manager. These were both unanimous decisions made by the BFBB Executive.

In the short term no new Line Manager will be appointed.

As the BFBB has not been informed of any industrial action by employees no comment can be made.

Bands are encouraged to send registration and transfer documents to the registry office in the normal manner.

BFBB Executive Committee