One of the most successful musical partnerships in North West banding will come to an end at the British Open Spring Festival in Blackpool this month.

After seven years at the helm, Gareth Brindle will leave his role as Musical Director of the Rainford Band, stating that he feels now is the right time for him to move on and look for a new challenge.

Success

The band recently confirmed their return to the Championship Section with their victory at the First Section Regional Championships at the Winter Gardens, whilst they are the current Dr Martin Wainstone Cup champion.

The Grand Shield contender also won the Senior Trophy in 2015 and Senior Cup in 2016 under the former Black Dyke and Fairy baritone star.

Talking to 4BR he said: "I've had a wonderful time with Rainford and have so many highlights that I will take away with me.

When I think back to what the band was like when I started to where it is now, very few would have predicted the success and I feel proud of our achievements together. It's the right time now to seek new challenges."

He added: "I wish the band every success in the future especially at the National Finals later in the year."

When I think back to what the band was like when I started to where it is now, very few would have predicted the success and I feel proud of our achievements togetherGareth Brindle

Thanks

In response, Rainford Band chairman Geoff Hunter told 4BR: "We would like to thank Gareth for his immense contribution over the last seven years. He has led some fantastic concerts and recorded some outstanding results on the contest stage, not least at the Dr Martins and Scottish Open contests.

He added: "We are sad that he is moving on but he goes with the knowledge that he has set a standard for Rainford Band which now enables us to compete at the highest level. He leaves with our very best wishes and our thanks for his work over the past seven years."