Conductor, John Cowking, joined the band in 1967, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. He began on Eb Bass and then moved to Tenor Trombone until taking over the role of conductor in 1972. Since then John has led the band at various events in the locality and in 2015 was awarded the British Empire Medal in the Queen’s New Year Honours, in recognition of musical services in the Hodder Valley.  In May 2022, John celebrated conducting the band for 50 years.