Nigel Taken has ended his 14 year tenure with the Aveley & Newham Band in which he led them to three regional contest victories, 10 appeariances at the National brass band finals at the Royal Albert Hall and the British Open twice.

Under his leadership the band appeared every year at the All England International Masters Contest.

In a statement, the Aveley & Newham committee said: “In ending our association we would like to recognise the enormous contribution and commitment to the Aveley & Newham Band Nigel has made over the past 14 years.

“His musicality and band training has been major factor in the past successes of the band and we wish him all the very best for the future.”