IAN Edwards, the musical director of Constantine Silver Band, has stepped down from the role due to personal business commitments.

Ian has led the band for 12 years, during which time he has seen the players achieve considerable success at competitions.

Constantine has won a total of 18 trophies since 1993, including many prizes at the Cornwall Brass Band Association contest. Last year, the band achieved its highest placing - eighth out of 25 bands - at the national qualifying round of the West of England Championships.

Concerts across the county have kept the band busy, as well as engagements further afield including seven overseas tours playing to packed houses in France, Holland and Germany.

In 1997, the Constantine players led a contingent of Cornish marchers to Blackheath in London to mark the 500th anniversary of the 1497 rebellion.

During Ian's reign as musical director, the band has also released its first CD, received a complete set of new instruments thanks to national lottery funding and been kitted out with new uniforms.

Ian said: "I have enjoyed my time with Constantine and feel proud to have been a part of their historic journey. I would like to thank everyone - the players, public and especially the officials - for their help and support over the years.

"At this moment in time I cannot give the band the 100 per cent commitment that is needed from a musical director. I have suggested some conductors as a replacement and hopefully the band will appoint the right person and go forward."