*
banner

Crockford returns to Grimethorpe

Sop star makes a third return to Grimethorpe after year at Brighouse.

Kevin Crockford
 

Grimethorpe Colliery Band has announced the return of soprano star Kevin Crockford to its ranks, following a successful 12 month spell at rivals Brighouse & Rastrick.

Fantastic band

Kevin told 4BR: "I have really enjoyed my year with Brighouse and feel sad to leave. They are a fantastic band with great players and conductors and are such genuinely nice people too.

However, the travelling time from my home to Brighouse, coupled with my increased workload has become challenging to the point where I could see me missing rehearsals – and that is something I just do not like doing."

Dear to me

He added: "Grimey is 15 minutes from my home, so that will make a huge difference. I first signed with the band back in 1990 and have been there for a total of nine years in two spells, so the band is obviously very dear to me."

Return

Kevin revealed that principal cornet player Roger Webster had been instrumental in his return.

"Roger contacted me and we have been speaking regularly about a potential return as Andrew Bannister was having major work issues which meant he would have to leave as soon as a suitable replacement was found. In those circumstances I believe it is now the right time for me to come back."

We are delighted Kevin has returned. He really is at the top of the tree as far as soprano players go and his commitment as a bandsman is unquestionableBand Manager, Gareth Crane

Immediate effect

Kevin takes up his old seat with immediate effect and is looking forward to a very busy Grimethorpe schedule.

Band spokesperson Gareth Crane added: "We are delighted Kevin has returned. He really is at the top of the tree as far as soprano players go and his commitment as a bandsman is unquestionable.

We would also like to take this opportunity to thank Andrew for his superb playing and commitment to Grimethorpe. He will be sadly missed as he always gave 100% as a player and bandsmen."

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Flowers

Flowers to take to Snape stage

June 10 • The National Champion will perform as part of the prestigious 'Summer at Snape' series later this year.


PPP focus at Youth Fest

June 10 • It will be a great day of relaxed participation, performance and progression at the BBE Youth Fest in North Finchley next month.


Dutch Open

Strong line-up for Dutch Open

June 10 • There is a strong line-up of concert and contest performers at the Dutch Open this weekend in Groningen.


Hebden Bridge

Denis Wick boost to Hebden Bridge contest

June 10 • The 'Best Instrumentalist' at the forthcoming March & Hymn Tune Contest will get a generous boost thanks to Denis Wick products.


Contest: Whit Friday March Contests

Friday 13 June • Saddleworth & Tameside OL3


Hebden Bridge Brass Band - The 13th annual Hebden Bridge March Contest

Sunday 15 June • St George's Square, Hebden Bridge HX7 8ET


The Portsmouth Grammar School - Concert by The Black Dyke Band

Saturday 28 June • St Marys Church, Fratton, Portsmouth PO15PA PO15PA


Petworth Town Band - Fete in the Park with Petworth Town Band

Saturday 28 June • Grounds of Petworth Park GU28 9LR


Petworth Town Band - Farnham Brass Band and Petworth Town Band

Saturday 28 June • Farnham Carnival


Rushden Town Band

June 8 • 2nd Trombone - come and join our amazing trombone section in Rushden Town Band. A varied engagement schedule as well as a tour every other year.


Rushden Town Band

June 8 • B flat bass position for this fun-loving, 1st Section East Midlands band. Varied engagement schedule including a tour every other year.


Chinnor Silver

June 7 • Our Community Band is meeting on Monday {9th} and would welcome anyone who fancies an extra friendly rehearsal,with coffee and cake involved.. We rehearse in our bandroom at 11am its free and it open to all abilities.. No commitment required.


Ian Porthouse


Cornet soloist, clinician, conductor and adjudicator


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd