4BR has been informed that Gordon Eddison is to step down as MD of York Railway Institute Band.

Cheltenham stop

Gordon will be relinquishing his role after the band’s fourth consecutive National Finals appearance in Cheltenham in September.

Gordon told 4BR: "York RI is a fantastic band and I’m glad to be able to call all the members there friends. However, come September my teaching workload changes so radically that I will not be able to devote the amount of time to the band that it deserves."

Excellent performances

He added: "We have worked very hard together and moved up from the Third to the First Section from 2014, with plenty of good times and excellent performances along the way. The band is easily the best run band I have ever worked with. It has full rehearsals and a great work ethic.

I’m just so sorry that I haven’t been able to re-structure my working week – and especially evenings, to stay there."

The band is easily the best run band I have ever worked with. It has full rehearsals and a great work ethicGordon Eddison

Tribute

Band Chairman Clive Marshall has paid tribute, adding: "Gordon has been an excellent MD and we are incredibly sad to lose him.

He took the band over when it was at a low ebb in 2010, but through his excellent musicianship and positive attitude he has re-energised the team and transformed its fortunes enjoying much contesting success and well acclaimed concerts since.

On behalf of everyone in the band I would like to publicly thank Gordon for all his hard work and offer best wishes to him for the future."