Royal Buckley Town Band has announced the appointment of Duncan Beckley as their professional Musical Advisor for both Preston and the Welsh Area contests in 2008.

After a successful and promising 2007 under the leadership of Paul Lovatt-Cooper nothing could stop the relegation of Royal Buckley back to the Third Section in 2008.

Politically correct

The decision to use his composition 'Dark Side of the Moon' for the area qualifiers was a bit of a shock as the band had been so successful with it in the Second Section during 2007.

It was decided that it would be politically correct on both sides for the band to employ another professional. The band was disappointed not to be able to work with Paul but understood the reasons why.

Duncan is a great trainer and the band is responding to him very well, we are all looking forward to the challenges of 2008Dave Davies, Royal Buckley Band

Pity

Resident Conductor Dave Davies told 4BR: "Paul worked well with the band and it was a great pity that this decision was made, but it was felt to be necessary for Paul’s and our interests and reputation.

Duncan is a great trainer and the band is responding to him very well, we are all looking forward to the challenges of 2008."

Early work

Duncan has been working with the band throughout January, with some internal moves and additional signings the band is up to strength and hopes to achieve some positive results over the coming months.

Duncan’s first contest with the band will be at Preston on Sunday then he will make the long trip down to Swansea to perform in the Brangwyn Hall for the first time.