After more than a decade conducting Helston Band, MD John Hitchens, has decided to take a well-earned break from banding.

Success

John was appointed MD in 2002 and under his direction, the band was crowned Cornish First Section Champions, gaining promotion to the First Section in 2004.

Further success saw them become West of England First Section Champions in 2006 and again in 2008, making two successful appearances at the National Finals. Helston gained promotion to the Championship Section in 2009 where they enjoyed a productive three year stay.

Proms

Under John’s baton the band competed in 31 contests, earning 10 victories and 8 podium finishes, whilst he was also responsible for the setting up the popular ‘Lismore Proms,’ an annual ‘Last Night of the Proms’ themed event.

Band Chairman Alan Trewhella told 4BR: "The last 10 years have been exciting and very positive with the band enjoying many prestigious contest results and performing a vast array of excellent concerts.

John has become a good friend and I am proud to have had the opportunity to work with him. I would like to thank him for all he has done and wish him good luck with his musical career in the future."

I’d like to say a massive thanks to all the members of the band; the players, the committee and the ladies committee for all their hard work and commitment over the last decadeJohn Hitchens

Honour

John himself added: "It has been an honour and a privilege to conduct Helston. They have put on some truly wonderful performances, and to be part of the band when we competed in the Championship Section for the first time is something that will stay with me for a long time.”

He added: "I’d like to say a massive thanks to all the members of the band; the players, the committee and the ladies committee for all their hard work and commitment over the last decade: It has been remarkable.

They are the reason this band is, and has been so successful — and long may that continue."

Last outing

John will finish with the band at the end of June, but fittingly his final official engagement will take place on the famous Helston Flora Day.