Carlton Main Frickley and Musical Director, Ian McElligott have drawn to a close their successful six year musical connection.

Appointed in 2016, Ian has worked with the likes of Russell Gray, Erik Janssen and Allan Withington to maintain the band's position as one of the leading elite level bands in the UK.

The band returned to the British Open in 2016 after winning the Grand Shield, qualified for the National Finals and provided critically acclaimed performances at Brass in Concert. They also won the French Open and returned to the World Music Contest in Kerkrade.

Fantastic work

Band Chairperson, Ray Sykes told 4BR: "On behalf of everyone I would firstly like to thank Ian for has fantastic work with us. It's been such a successful period with so many highlights both on and off stage.

Ian will always remain a great friend of the band. To maintain a position of Musical Director at this level for such a period is not an easy task, so it highlights how well the relationship has worked.

He added: "We all wish Ian all the best with whatever comes next for him and we're absolutely sure he won't be a stranger at Carlton Main in the future."

Wonderful fit

In response, Ian McElligott said: "From the moment I joined the band, it was clear that we were a wonderful 'fit' and would go on to develop a close and rewarding relationship.

I have made life-long friendships with so many people and these last six years have been without doubt the happiest and most fulfilling of my professional life."

I leave with so many fond memories and we part on the best possible terms. I would wish the entire team every possible success for the futureIan McElligott

Time to settle

He added: "However, the needs of the band are paramount, so standing down at this precise moment will allow ample time to identify and select the right person for what is a key appointment.

Furthermore, it will allow my successor time to settle and prepare for when Allan Withington returns for the British Open.

I leave with so many fond memories and we part on the best possible terms. I would wish the entire team every possible success for the future and of course, I will continue to follow the band's performances with great interest and enthusiasm."

Final appearance

Ian's final appearance was at Ashville College on the weekend as part of the upcoming Platinum Jubilee Celebrations where they were joined by former England international, Michael Dawson.