Strata Brass from the Midlands are building for the forthcoming contest season with Simon Fisher returning to the band on Eb Bass after a 3 year absence, Lisa Hardy back on solo baritone, Jo Reasbeck promoted to solo trombone, Samantha Pearson returning to help out on the back row and Julian Holling signing from City of Sheffield (Stocksbridge) on soprano.

Loyal

Secretary Paul Wilkinson told 4BR: "We're delighted with these developments, particularly as some of our players have been approached by higher section bands but have remained loyal to the band.

"Although our emphasis has always been on entertainment and public performances, we felt 2010 was the year to try and make an assault on test piece contests as well."