Sandhurst Silver Band has announced that their successful eight year musical partnership with Musical Director Ian McElligott (above) has come to an end.

New job

The conductor has accepted a new job as Senior Administrator at St Michael le Belfrey, the Anglican Church adjacent to York Minster in North Yorkshire. Not only is this a new working challenge, but also allows him and his wife Annie to be nearer their family in the North East of England.

During his tenure the MD directed Sandhurst through two promotions, ultimately taking them in 2015 to the Championship Section for the first time in their 107 year history.

Titles

Under his direction the band won the Weston, Leicestershire and Wychavon First Section titles as well as the Butlins Mineworkers title in 2014.

A spokesperson told 4BR: "Ian not only brought his MD skills to the band, but also his compositions and arrangements. He also introduced us to the 'Big Mac Little Big Band' that formed part of concerts over the years, adding a Big Band sound to the traditional brass band programme."

Sandhurst would like to say a huge thank you to Ian for everything he has done during his tenure and wishes both him and his family every success and happiness for their future in the North of EnglandSandhurst Band

Thank you

They added: "Sandhurst would like to say a huge thank you to Ian for everything he has done during his tenure and wishes both him and his family every success and happiness for their future in the North of England."