United Co-op Milnrow Band has announced the appointment of John Ward as its new Musical Director, following the departure of Andrew White.

Having gained much conducting experience within the Salvation Army John's first contest appointment came only a few weeks ago when he led Milnrow to 4th place at the Butlins Mineworkers Championship.

Happy opportunity

John told 4BR: "I'm really happy to be given this opportunity with Milnrow. The band's attitude and approach is excellent and it showed at Butlins. We are all delighted with that result, but I am particularly happy that the band has given itself something positive to build on for the 2008 contest and concert programme."