Burbage Silver Band has announced that MD Christopher Small will leave the Midlands band at the end of the year.

Rejuvenated

Chris joined the Fourth Section outfit in 2014, developing them during a period of re-building to enjoy rejuvenated success.

He told 4BR: "I'm sad to step down after what has been two fantastic years. When I was appointed the band was lacking in numbers and hadn't competed for a number of years.

The hard work of the players allowed them to compete again, achieving their first podium finish in over a decade at the Woodfarm Entertainment Contest as well as their highest finish at this year's Area contest since 1996."

Noticed

He added: "The hard work has been noticed by others and six players will be moving to bands in the First and Second Section. This coupled with the fact that others are taking time off for medical reasons has meant that sadly Burbage won't be competing at the 2016 Area.

Having spent the last two years rebuilding it's a huge credit that these players will now to play at a higher level.

I have had a thoroughly enjoyable time and I would like to thank everyone for their hard work and loyalty whilst I've been Musical Director."

I have had a thoroughly enjoyable time and I would like to thank everyone for their hard work and loyalty whilst I've been Musical DirectorChristopher Small

Thanks

A band spokesperson replied: "We are saddened to lose Chris, but appreciate that he is a young conductor who needs to nurture his talent.

We would like to thank him for all his hard work and congratulate him on the successes gained upon our return to the contest scene. We wish him every success in the future."