4BR has been informed that the highly successful musical partnership between Uppermill Band and MD Alan Widdop will come to an end after the North West Regional contest in February.

Victories

The performance in the Second Section at the Winter Gardens will mark the end of twelve years together — a period which saw the combination claim an unprecedented four consecutive Pontins National titles, as well as a plethora of victories at regional contests in Buxton, Holme, Fleetwood, Kippax, Beaumont and Manchester.

The band also won the Fourth Section area title in 2008 and went on to come runner-up at the National Finals.

After taking the band from the Fourth to First in this time it has been twelve years of pleasure and fulfilmentAlan Widdop

Very happy

Alan told 4BR: "After twelve very happy years at Uppermill, the Area contest will be my last performance with them as MD.

After taking the band from the Fourth to First in this time it has been twelve years of pleasure and fulfilment. It's also had its ups and downs like most bands, but I couldn't have asked for any more dedication and commitment. I have also made many good friends."

He added: "I now feel the time has come though to move on, so I would like wish everyone all the very best for the future after we last take to the contest stage at Blackpool."