The Pemberton Old Wigan DW Band has thanked former conductor Mark Bentham for his outstanding contribution to their growing development as a Championship Section contesting force, following the news that he has resigned to take up the resident conductor’s role with Grimethorpe Colliery Band.

Remarkable success

Secretary John Atkinson told 4BR that his four and half year tenure has brought remarkable success to the North West band.

"When Mark arrived in 2008 he took over a band that was a struggling in the Championship Section and on the brink of possible relegation.

His impact though was immediate, and victory in 2009 at Brass at the Guild Hall was followed by qualification to the National Finals for the first time since 1907."

Unprecedented

He added: "The band then enjoyed a period of unprecedented success, with podium finishes at the Scottish Open in 2009 and 2010, further victories at Brass at the Guild Hall, another London Finals appearance and fine results at the Grand Shield and All England Masters."

We wish Mark every success in his new venture and thank him for turning what was a struggling Championship outfit into an established top level contender at major eventsJohn Atkinson

Thanks

John concluded: "We wish Mark every success in his new venture and thank him for turning what was a struggling Championship outfit into an established top level contender at major events and a highly popular and successful concert band."

4BR understands that the band is currently seeking a new MD with an announcement to be made in due course.