Andrew Porter is to step down from the role of Musical Director of Morecambe Band due to his commitments as Director of Music of the Band of the Grenadier Guards.

It will bring to an end a hugely successful six-year tenure with an organisation he has helped to develop from an initial core of just 16 players to become a vibrant community band enjoying artistic and competitive success.

Rise

It has also seen them rise from the Fourth to the Second Section, coming fifth at the recent North West Regional Championships in Blackpool. The band won Fourth Section Area title in 2022 and followed it with the Third Section title in 2024. They also enjoyed victories at the Kirkby Lonsdale Contest and in winning Fourth Section of the Cory on-line competition in 2021.

During the Covid-19 period the band embraced an innovative approach to continued player, performance and community engagement, whilst their concert programmes gained a loyal and increasing following thanks to their audience friendly approach and inventive programming.

Immensely proud

Speaking to 4BR Andrew said that he was "immensely proud"to have been part of the rejuvenation of two more of Morecambe's bands; its Academy Band to help learners and the Community Band, which continues to provide a safe, inclusive space where players of any age and level of ability can play music together.

Commitment

A spokesperson for the band told 4BR: "Andrew's selfless commitment often saw him commute from London for rehearsals — a 460-mile round trip to ensure Morecambe Band was also at the forefront of his musical ethos.

We fully understand his situation and simply thank him for all that he has done. He has rejuvenated us as a band."

I have had a fabulous time with wonderful people. I've been immensely proud to have led them and bring them back into the heart of their communityAndrew Porter

Fabulous time

In response Andrew stated: "I have had a fabulous time with wonderful people. I've been immensely proud to have led them and bring them back into the heart of their community.

I wish them all the very best in the future. I now look forward to new opportunities balanced to my professional commitments."