Helston Town Band’s musical director has resigned less than seven months after taking up the post.

Derek Johnston was appointed last June as a replacement for former MD John Hitchens, who had been with the band ten years.

The reason for Mr Johnston’s resignation has not been made public.

Band chairman Alan Trewhella confirmed that Mr Johnston had resigned, but was unable to comment any further at this time.

A meeting is due to take place tonight, Wednesday, to discuss the various options for the band.

It is hoped that more information will be available following that meeting.

Mr Johnston is a former principal trombone player for St Austell, St Keverne and Camborne town bands.

In 1992 he was asked to conduct the St Keverne Band, beginning his conducting career that led to periods at Heyl and St Stithians Band.

Immediately before taking control of Helston Town Band, Mr Johnson had returned to playing, with Camborne Town Band.

At the time of his appointment he said he was looking forward to “some great times ahead.”

He lives in Helston with his wife, Teresa, and has two sons and a daughter.