4BR has been exclusively informed that Roger Webster has relinquished his role as principal cornet of Grimethorpe Colliery Band.

Thoughts

Speaking to 4BR the Besson artist said that the increasingly busy concert schedule of the Yorkshire band and his own work with the leading instrument manufacturer has made it impossible to give the commitment he feels the role, which he has held since 2015, requires.

"This is a decision that's been in my thoughts for some time now and it's really a combination of a number of things,"he said.

"The excellent organisation behind the band has seen the concert schedule get busier, whilst I've been increasingly concentrating on my teaching work, solo engagements and my Besson band visits around the country which I've been thoroughly enjoying."

It means I can't give the 100% commitment the band deserves from its principal cornet, although I will still be involved in my capacity as a trusteeRoger Webster

Exciting outlook

He added: "It means I can't give the 100% commitment the band deserves from its principal cornet, although I will still be involved in my capacity as a trustee.

Grimethorpe has an exciting artistic outlook working with the likes of Allan Withington and a new commercial awareness that bodes so well for the future.

News on my replacement will be made shortly, and they will come to a band that I believe is in an excellent position to prosper on both the contest and concert platform."