4BR has been informed that the musical partnership between Newtongrange Band and professional MD Lee Skipsey has come to an end.

During the three year association the partnership claimed a brace of Scottish First Section Championship titles, the Scottish Challenge Shield and the Senior Trophy at the Spring Festival in Blackpool (above).

The band climbed into the top 100 of the 4BR World Rankings.

Deserve

Lee told 4BR: "The increasing success of City of Bradford and BD1 Bands has meant that I couldn't in future give Newtongrange the level of commitment they deserve and should expect from a professional MD.

I have enjoyed such a brilliant time with a wonderful band and some very special people, and I wish them all the very best for the future. I learnt so much from them all.

The organisational foundations and the musical talent are in place throughout the band, and I'm sure they will continue to prosper and develop."

I have enjoyed such a brilliant time with a wonderful band and some very special people, and I wish them all the very best for the future. I learnt so much from them allLee Skipsey

Concentrating

Lee added: "I'm now concentrating on further developing the City of Bradford and BD1 Bands and pushing them both forward."