One of the most respected top-flight band players in the UK has taken the decision to retire from active playing, with the news that Andrew Riley of Rothwell Temperance has hung up his cornet mouthpiece.

Andy (4th man down on solo cornet bench above) has been a key driving force both as a player and administrator with the Yorkshire band for the past 20 years — a period that has seen them claim a brace of Grand Shield wins, gain memorable victories at the Yorkshire Area, All England Masters and Swiss Open and become a highly regarded major championship contender.

Role model

MD Dave Roberts told 4BR: "Andy has always been the most highly respected member of Rothwell Band.

He has been a role model as a bandsman and as a mentor to some of our younger players and will be a sorely missed as an integral part of the cornet section, although we are delighted that he will remain as the most dedicated of Band Managers."

Andy recently became a proud grandfather for the first time, but will juggle spoiling the new addition to the family by continuing his Band Manager role4BR

New roles

Andy recently became a proud grandfather for the first time, but will juggle spoiling the new addition to the family by continuing his Band Manager role.

During an emotional speech at the band's recent awards annual dinner, where he was presented with a crystal decanter, he revealed just how much he had enjoyed playing with the band over the years and how he is looking forward to spending more time focusing on his new roles.