New management for Black Knights

The Black Knights Drum and Bugle Corps from Gravesend - Kent have announced their new management team for the 2014 season. Taking over as corps director is Mark Neilson, who replaces Paul Richards.

The Black Knights Drum and Bugle Corps from Gravesend - Kent have announced their new management team for the 2014 season. Taking over as corps director is Mark Neilson, who replaces Paul Richards.

Paul Richards is stepping down after four years in charge to focus on the corps cadet activity. Paul says: "After leading the organisation for 4 years I am glad to be able to take a step back and concentrate on my new family whilst a great new team have been formed to take Black Knights into the future. It will be an honour to work alongside Mark and his new team."

New corps director Mark Neilson comments: "I would like to thank Paul for everything he has achieved as corps director. I have worked alongside Paul for the past 2 years and know first hand what he has done for the corps. It is a great honour to take this position and follow in line with some great BK corps directors."

Mark Neilson is joined on the new management team by Mark Jeffrey as the senior corps coordinator, replacing Steve Blakeley. Mark Jeffrey says: "I feel honoured and privileged to be stepping in to this position. Steve has been an inspiration not only to me but all of us at Black Knights, and hope he enjoys a little more time with his family. This is a new chapter in Black Knights history and I am looking forward to being part of it."

Steve Blakeley who now focuses on his position as Brass Caption Head added, "It has been a great pleasure taking the reigns of the senior corps for the last 5 years and watching the group grow year on year. Mark Jeffrey has been a part of BK for the last two years. From the get go he couldn't do enough to help the corps in any way possible. I’m very excited to see where Mark J and Mark N take the corps. They both have a great drive and passion to take the corps forward and I’m very much looking forward to working with them in 2014 and onwards."

Mark Neilson concludes: "We are committed in taking Black Knights to the next level and in doing so build an environment for our members to compete at the highest standard. The management team promise to serve the members and staff, making sure they get the best support possible." The Black Knights 2014 programme will be announced on 9th November.

Black Knights at DCE Championships 2013 - © Drum Corps Media