The Jaguar Land Rover Band has marked the retirement of Dave Lea as their Musical Director for the past 30 years by making him their new Life President.

Band Manager Simon Archer told 4BR: "His has been a remarkable journey with the band, and it has been a privilege to work with Dave for many years.

His attention to detail is second to none and his support and guidance will be greatly missed."

Life President

He added: "We feel that it is appropriate that the band recognises his talent, loyalty and commitment by offering him the role of Life President. We will also mark his retirement by holding a celebration concert for all players who have played under him during that outstanding 30 year period."

Those sentiments were also echoed by the parent company, with April Wickens from the Social Impact team at Jaguar Land Rover adding: "Dave has been a fantastic ambassador for the band and the company for the past 30 years and we wish him all the best in his retirement."

Success

As reported on 4BR, Dave Lea took over the band whilst they were in the Second Section, leading them to promotion and the First Section Midlands (South) Area title in 1993 — a feat repeated at the combined Midlands Regional Championships in 1995. In the same year they became the First Section National Champions of Great Britain.

Under his direction they became one of the Midlands most consistent top flight bands — winning the Bolsover Entertainment title in 2011, the Midlands Regional title for the very first time in 2013 and the Senior Cup in 2015.

The band also appeared at the Albert Hall National Finals on three occasions, and after coming runner-up at the 2016 Grand Shield, they qualifying for the very first time for the British Open, where they performed again in 2017.

Dave has been a fantastic ambassador for the band and the company for the past 30 years and we wish him all the best in his retirementApril Wickens, Jaguar Land Rover

Muscial heights

Simon Archer added: "During his tenure the band has reached many musical heights. From performances throughout the UK, tours in Europe and the USA and numerous radio and television appearances, audiences have been treated to a plethora of music and new compositions.

Everyone at Jaguar Land Rover Band thanks Dave for the fantastic journey you have taken us on, and we hope that we can enjoy another 30 years and more with him as our proud Life President."