West of England champion Flowers has announced that their principal euphonium player Andrew Hicks will be leaving the band after their appearance at the Brass in Concert Championship in November.

Relocation

Andy has reluctantly accepted a job offer in his native Essex starting in the New Year and will relocate there over the Christmas period.

Model bandsman

Band Manager Lee Downie told 4BR: "Andy has quite simply been a model bandsman, not just from his commitment but also for his outstanding playing. He is simply one of the best euphonium players of his generation."

Andy has quite simply been a model bandsman, not just from his commitment but also for his outstanding playing. He is simply one of the best euphonium players of his generationBand Manager, Lee Downie

Massive

He added: "Since depping with the band at Brass in Concert in 2004, where he won the Best Euphonium award, he has played a massive part in the band's performances at concerts and contest.

In addition to his brilliant playing, he has served as a committee member and a very big character within the band. He will be sorely missed by everyone.

He will play his last National Finals for us this coming Saturday and then Brass in Concert, where he is hoping that can end his tenure on a real high."

It is understood that an announcement regarding a replacement will be made before Brass in Concert.