The West of England Bandsmen's Festival has announced the appointment of Geraint Richards as its new Chairman.

He succeeds the well known musician, conductor and band trader Leonard Adams, who has stood down after ten years in the post. In recognising the commitment and support he gave to the Festival during his term in office, the Festival has elected him a Life Member.

Original mover

A spokesperson told 4BR: "Geraint has a unique connection to the Festival, as his great-grandfather, F J P Richards, was the prime mover in the founding in 1912. The first Festival was held in the grounds of Peniel House, built by the family on the outskirts of Bugle, until 1965."

In his position of Head Forester for the Duchy of Cornwall Geraint is involved in projects nationwide for HRH The Prince of Wales, Duke of Cornwall, who is Patron of the Festival. His five children are all musical, continuing the family's brass band tradition.

Geraint has a unique connection to the Festival, as his great-grandfather, F J P Richards, was the prime mover in the founding in 1912Event spokesperson

Start date

He will take on the new role at the this year's Festival on Saturday June 17th, which will start at 10.00am with the traditional march through Bugle village by the competing bands. The contest day starts at 11.00am.

For further information go to: www.buglebandcontest.co.uk