ST RONAN’S Silver Band has announced Gordon Jenkins as its new conductor ahead of the 2020 Scottish Championships.

The 62-year-old former Royal Marine has been playing in brass bands for more than half a century.

Following his military service, Gordon went on to play for many Championship Section bands, enjoying great contest successes, including second place at National Mineworkers Contest in 1999, second at the British Open in 2003, third at the British Open 2004 and a win at the All England Masters in 2005.

During his brass banding time in Scotland, Gordon has played for Major Peter Parkes, Professor Nick Childs and David James.

He currently holds the soprano cornet position at Newtongrange Silver Band where he plays under the direction of Andrew Duncan.

Gordon, who is conducting St Ronan's Band during Sunday's Remembrance service, is delighted with his appointment.

He said: "I am really looking forward to working with St Ronan's as conductor.

"They are a great Band and it will be a real privilege to take on this new role."

Gordon will play with St Ronan's at the Scottish Challenge Contest in Perth later this month.

And he will officially pick up the baton in January.

Band chairman Claire Bell told us: "Gordon has been associated with St Ronan's for several years now, having played with the band on many occasions.

"We, therefore, had no hesitation in appointing him to lead us at the most important contest of the year.

"With his musical knowledge and experience and his skills in working with people, we are sure that Gordon will be a great asset to the band in this role."