The Scottish Co-op Band has announced that Gregor Stewart is taking over the position of principal trombone with immediate effect, filling the vacancy created by the recent resignation of Paul Kiernan.

Highest quality

Commenting on Gregor's appointment, the Co-op band manager, Iain Howie, told 4BR: "I am absolutely delighted that Gregor has agreed to take on the responsibility of principal trombone with the Scottish Co-op Band in succession to Paul Kiernan. I am also confident that with the deserved reputation he has achieved as a player of the highest quality over the last few years, he will be a worthy successor to Paul."

I am also confident that with the deserved reputation he has achieved as a player of the highest quality over the last few years, he will be a worthy successor to PaulIain Howie, Band Manager

Principal

Gregor, who is 28 years old, has only ever been signed with two bands. He played second trombone with Bo'ness and Carriden for a number of years before having a shorter spell as second trombone with the Co-op. He then took a few years out from banding before going back to Bo'ness and Carriden as principal trombone.

Enormity

Speaking to Scottish Co-op's media spokesman, Robert McCorkell, Gregor said: "I understand the enormity of the task facing me in replacing a trombone legend like Paul Kiernan and I wish him well in his conducting career but I am excited about the challenge ahead and will be doing my best to help the band get back to winning ways in the future.

Finally, I would like to thank Bo'ness and Carriden Band and would wish them all the best after their recent promotion to the Championship section."