Dysart Colliery Silver Band has announced the appointment of Ross Brotherston as their new MD.

Long awaited

The Kirkcaldy based band state that the appointment marks a new period in its development as they seek to gain a long awaited promotion from the Fourth Section — last achieved in 1968 when the MD was Drake Rimmer.

The former Newtongrange player and Tullis Russell Mills conductor will lead Dysart at the forthcoming FCBA Contest and the Band Supplies Scottish Challenge — choosing an ambitious test-piece in order to help grow and develop the band's musicianship and skill levels.

He has also worked under the likes of Richard Evans, Allan Ramsay and Steve Sykes and as a conductor with Raymond Tennant and Lee Skipsey in preparing bands for concerts and contests.

it marks a new period in its development as they seek to gain a long awaited promotion from the Fourth Section — last achieved in 1968 when the MD was Drake Rimmer4BR

Fond farewells

He takes over from Bruce Fraser, whose five year tenure saw the band achieve three top-six finishes and one podium place.

A spokesperson told 4BR: "The band wish Bruce the fondest of farewells, recognising that he led us through a transitory period with musical gusto, dedication and professionalism which everyone benefited from."