Roberts Bakery Band has confirmed that the musical partnership with Musical Director Paul Lovatt-Cooper has come to an end.

A spokesperson told 4BR: "Paul is stepping down due to increasing professional commitments and a growing family.

He has made this difficult decision and we would like to take the opportunity to thank him for his musicianship, leadership and dedication over the last six years in leading us to the Championship Section."

They added: "We wish him well and we are delighted that he will continue to be associated with us on future projects."

New lead

The band has confirmed that Mike Jones will take on the role as interim resident conductor.

The vastly experienced Welshman has played at the highest level for many years, including successful tenures at YBS and other leading bands.

He told 4BR: "Paul has been an inspirational MD who has built a band that has a great spirit, huge talent and brilliant determination. It's my job now to carry that on."

Pleasure

Speaking about his decision, Paul told 4BR: "It's been an absolute pleasure working with the players, management team and the Roberts family at the bakery who continue with their amazing support forh the band. 

The decision comes with a heavy heart, but due to my growing professional and family commitments I simply don't have the time to be able to commit to the travel and MD role."

He added: "Mike is a great friend, outstanding musician and conductor. I'd like to wish him, the players and everyone associated with the bakery and band all the very best for the future and I look forward to working with them again at some point."

The decision comes with a heavy heart, but due to my growing professional and family commitments I simply don't have the time to be able to commit to the travel and MD rolePaul Lovatt-Cooper

Thanks

Speaking about the news, Roberts Bakery Band Chairperson, Gareth Broughton added: "I would personally like to thank Paul and wish him well. I am also very pleased to be welcoming Mike to the band to start a new chapter of music making.

We look forward to a bright future working closely with our fantastic sponsor who we thank for their continued support.

We will be working closely with the bakery on several community initiatives and public events over the coming months as we start our process to fill our permanent Musical Director position after the North West Area contest in 2023.