Poynton News - written by local people

Alan Lawton, MBE, has had to relinquish the post of MD of Vernon Building Society Poynton Band due to eyesight problems. The Band are pleased to announce the appointment of Kevin Gibbs as their new man at the helm.

Kevin Gibbs, new MD of VBS Brass Band

Former MD of Flixton Band and more recently BMP Goodshaw Band. Kevin was solo trombone with both Black Dyke and Faireys for a number of years and has brought Flixton Band up through the sections with considerable success on the contest stage.

Kevin joins the Band following a creditable 3rd place at Butlins Mineworkers competition in January, at which he was asked to conduct the band, starting 2008 in style. The band just missed out on qualification for the Finals after a fine performance at the Area Contest conducted by Alan Lawton. Kevin then took the band again at Buxton Contest with Gregson’s Dances and Arias and gained another 3rd place against some very good competition.

The relationship between Alan Lawton and Poynton Band started 1974 and he has conducted the band through many successes. With his wealth of experience, Alan has proved extremely successful both with Poynton and other bands he has conducted and is very popular with the strong following Poynton has built up over the years. The Band has been very proud to have had Alan as their full-time conductor.

The Vernon Building Society Poynton Band would like to thank Alan Lawton for all his hard work and inspiration over the years.

Alan will still be involved with the band and Kevin is very much looking forward to working with him on several forthcoming projects.