4BR has been informed that after a long and successful period with the Hepworth Band, Mark Bentham has decided to step down from his position as Musical Director.

Under his direction over the last seven years Hepworth has become established in the top flight of brass banding, with a number of major contest victories and appearances at the British Open, National Finals and Brass in Concert.

Rewarding

In stepping down from the band Mark told 4BR: "I would like to thank the players for all their hard work and fine playing during my seven year tenure. It has been an exciting and musically rewarding time."

Mark added: "The players have helped me raise the profile of the band and place it in its current position amongst the top band’s in the country. I’m sure the band will benefit from a fresh approach and new impetuous and I wish it every success in the future."

I would like to thank the players for all their hard work and fine playing during my seven year tenure. It has been an exciting and musically rewarding timeMark Bentham

Success

Under Mark’s direction the band has enjoyed many successes, including being crowned champions at the Saddleworth & District Whit Friday contests in 2004, Scottish Open winners in 2004, Grand Shield Champions in 2005, as well as runners up at the Yorkshire Area in 2007
and at the English Nationals in 2007.

Very best

A spokesperson for the Hepworth band told 4BR: "The committee and players of the Hepworth Cookson Homes Band would like to thank Mark for his direction and drive which has helped the band to achieve the above mentioned successes. We wish Mark all the very best in the future, in whatever direction he takes."

Porthouse appointment

The band has announced that Ian Porthouse has agreed to take them to the English Nationals and the British Open.