After 18 years, Graham Jacklin, the conducting driving force behind Leicestershire Co-op Band, has decided to step down from the role.

After swapping from principal cornet to Musical Director in 2001 when the band was competing in the Fourth Section, Graham steered the Midlanders through to Championship status, claiming a number of title successes and honours along the way.

Honours

These included the Second Section Midlands Area title in 2011 as well as multiple victories at the North East Midlands, Weston super Mare and Leicestershire BBA contests.

The band also came runner-up at the Second Section National Finals in 2011 off the number 1 draw. The partnership's last victory came at the 2017 Denby Pottery Village event.

In addition to the contest stage success, Graham also enhanced the band's concert reputation with innovative programmes.

Many current players started out with Graham on his journey eighteen years ago, their musicianship growing as the band progressedBand spokesperson

Thanks

A Band spokesperson told 4BR: "Throughout his tenure Graham placed great emphasis on home grown talent, always preferring to develop the skills of existing players or to develop new talent drawn from our training band.

Many current players started out with Graham on his journey eighteen years ago, their musicianship growing as the band progressed.

We have enjoyed a fantastic musical journey with Graham and we thank him and wish him all the best for the future."