East Yorkshire Motor Services Band has confirmed their delight that former MD Bob Childs will be conducting them at next month’s North of England Area Championships.

This will be the Cory MDs first contest with the band for over 10 years — his last appearance was at the 1997 National Finals, although he has since conducted the band on the concert stage.

11 year break

Bob, along with fellow peripatetic teacher Dixon Laing, was responsible for the formation of EYMS in September 1989 as the City of Hull Band, and conducted it regularly until 1997.

Only four players remain in the band from 1997 — the husband and wife teams of John & Julia Mathews, and David & Kirsty Fox.

We all realise that Bob has exacting standards, but it is a great opportunity for the Band to regain the momentum created at last year's Albert Hall performanceJohn Mathews

Lift

Solo baritone player John was delighted to announce to the band that Bob would be returning. He told 4BR: "Following the sudden departure of Jim Davies, this announcement gave us a real, and immediate lift. We all realise that Bob has exacting standards, but it is a great opportunity for the Band to regain the momentum created at last year's Albert Hall performance."

Helping hands

As reported, Duncan Beckley will be working with the band prior to Bob’s arrival as well as Garry Oglesby, who will be taking some rehearsals and a concert in Grimsby on the 16th February.

Band Chairman John Mathews told 4BR: "The Band hasn’t advertised for a replacement MD at the moment, as we have made arrangements for the Area, and will be announcing shortly who will be taking the Band to the Spring Festival."