A FORMER director of world-famous Grimethorpe Colliery Band has died.

Geoffrey Brand was the musical director of the band between 1984 and 1986.

A spokesperson for the band said: “His time with the band included an historic victory at the 1984 British Open Brass Band Championships.

“The test piece that day was Comedy Overture by John Ireland.

“This was the second time the band had won the British Open on that piece. Coincidentally, the band played the piece recently during our concerts at Morley Town Hall, the RNCM Brass Festival and Dorking Halls.

“We would like to dedicate those performances to the memory of Mr Brand.

“Geoffrey was a giant of the brass band movement and the band would like to pass on its deepest condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.