Conductor Leigh Baker has confirmed that he has stepped down his role with Marsden Silver Prize Band.

It follows a successful two-year tenure which culminated in gaining National Final qualification from the First Section Yorkshire Area championships, and which also marked their return to the Championship Section in 2027.

However, Leigh also led the South Yorkshire Police Band to victory at the same Huddersfield contest which meant that an understandable decision was made to appoint Ben Dixon to lead Marsden in York next month.

Great times

Leigh told 4BR: "I've loved my period at Marsden and we've had some great times together, but they really do need someone who isn't trying to juggle two bands at the same contest.

The same situation will crop up again at the Yorkshire Area Championships next year, so with travel and commitment at a priority it's not viable for the bands, or healthy for me, to carry it on.

I wish everyone at Marsden all the very best for the future and I'm sure our paths will cross again soon and look forward to continuing my work with South Yorkshire Police Band."

However, Leigh has been able to fit in a playing return alongside his adjudication, arranging and celebrant commitments with Carlton Main Frickley Colliery at the forthcoming British Open.

Thanks

In thanking Leigh, Marsden Band Manager Kath Coton told 4BR: "Everyone at Marsden would like to thank Leigh for his time with us and fully support his decision. We could never have predicted that both his bands would qualify for the National Finals and be promoted to the Championship Section.

We will miss his enthusiasm, music and his jokes and wish him all the very best for his future with South Yorkshire Police and his playing. Leigh will always be a welcome visitor to the band and has made many friends throughout his time with us."