Helston Town Band has announced the appointment of Derek Johnston to the role of Musical Director, following the departure after a decade the helm of former MD John Hitchens.

Looking forward

A vastly experienced player and conductor, Derek is a former playing member of Camborne Town as well as MD at St Keverne, Heyl and St Stythians.

Derek is now looking forward to taking up the baton with Helston, who told 4BR that they are equally delighted to have such a well-regarded musician and conductor on board.

Delighted

Derek commented: "I’m delighted to have been invited to become the new MD and I’m looking forward to some great times ahead.

It will be very difficult to better the band's immediate history, but I fully intend keeping the strong traditions of this band alive, whilst also looking forward to the future in a strong and positive way."

I fully intend keeping the strong traditions of this band alive, whilst also looking forward to the future in a strong and positive wayDerek Johnston

Delighted

A band spokesman added: "We are also delighted that Derek has agreed to take up the role. His enthusiasm shone through during our audition process and this, combined this with his vast experience of playing and conducting made us feel he was definitely the right person to take us forward."