4BR has been informed that the three year musical partnership between Unite the Union Band and conductor John Roberts has come to end.

Chairperson Melissa Maddison told 4BR: "It's with great sadness that we have taken the very difficult decision to part company with John Roberts as Musical Director.

John has been an asset to the band over the last three years and his dedication, commitment and passion has been evident throughout his time as our MD.

We have parted ways on very good terms and he will undoubtedly be missed."

John has been an asset to the band over the last three years and his dedication, commitment and passion has been evident throughout his time as our MD Chairperson Melissa Maddison

Success

During his tenure the band won the First Section title at the Bolsover Entertainment Contest, qualified for the 2017 First Section National Final where they came fifth and claimed a top-six finish at the Butlins Mineworkers Contest.

On further wishing John well, the band also stated that they were now looking forward to their appearance at the British Open Spring Festival where they will appear in the Senior Trophy.