Thurcroft Welfare Band has announced the retirement of MD Ken Vernon after a highly successful five years at the helm of the Yorkshire band, in which he led them out of the Fourth Section and into the Third.

Most experienced

One of Yorkshire banding’s most experienced players and conductors for over 55 years, Ken directed the likes of Harworth Colliery, Cresswell Colliery, Welbeck Estates and Whitwell Brass to many titles.

We are of course very sad that Ken is retiring from the main band, but equally delighted that he has decided to lead the Thurcroft Training Band which he established 3 years agoBand spokesperson

Sad but delighted

Thurcroft spokesperson Kim Smith told 4BR: "We are of course very sad that Ken is retiring from the main band, but equally delighted that he has decided to lead the Thurcroft Training Band which he established 3 years ago.

The Training Band has flourished under his guidance and will no doubt ensure the future of the main band for many years to come."