HE has been a popular and much loved face of the local classical music scene for the past eight years.

But Stuart Dunlop, conductor of the Watford Philharmonic Society, this week announced he would be leaving the orchestra and choir when he starts a new job next month.

Mr Dunlop, who joined the society in September 1997, has been credited with encouraging the group to choose programmes that have challenged and developed them over the years.

He is due to start a new job in Reading in September and said he did not want his work with the society to suffer.

He said: "I am becoming the director of music at Reading University and it will mean that I am going to be very busy there.

"I don't want to compromise either by trying to do both.

"I have enjoyed so many things about the Watford Philharmonic Society, such as being able to play a wide range of music and the chance to be able to work alongside the choir. I have made so many friends and have been given so much support over the years. I shall miss the society greatly."

For full story see tomorrow's printed version of the Watford Observer.