The Kippax Band has announced that MD Ian Knapton will be stepping down from his role after 18 months in charge.

Unfortunately, increased work commitments have meant round trips of several hours to each rehearsal and with a growing young family at home in Stamford in Lincolnshire it has meant that with great regret he has had to take the decision.

Fresh endeavour

Kippax Chairman, Colin Moss told 4BR: "Under Ian's leadership, the band has performed with fresh endeavour and showmanship on the concert and contest stage, and has attracted a full and committed team around the stand.

We also enjoyed success with podium finishes at Pogson Bray and Durham Festival Contests along with some additional individual prizes."

Thanks

He added: "When Ian arrived his passion, commitment, and musical ability was clear from the outset. Coupled with fresh new ideas and organisational skills, he contributed significantly to making Kippax a much improved musical and social environment.

We thank him for his unquestionable commitment, and understand completely his need to focus on family and work for now. Nonetheless, we'll to keep in touch, and I'm sure will be seeing him again in the future."

Coupled with fresh new ideas and organisational skills, he contributed significantly to making Kippax a much improved musical and social environment Kippax Chairman, Colin Moss

Hard decision

Commenting on his decision Ian said; "I've made the hard decision to leave a great band who have worked so hard for me over the last 18 months.

I have enjoyed leading one of the oldest bands in the world, and will be working with them to find the right person to lead them in future."