The Skelmanthorpe Band has announced a number of changes to its personnel ahead of the English National contest in Preston on the weekend.

Experience

Principal cornet player Jo Payne and bass trombonist Matt Johnson are in the process of relocating to the Midlands, and as a result, the experienced Tabby Clegg is helping out the band on principal cornet.

Meanwhile, Steve Godson has signed on bass trombone, Owen Watson has returned on solo baritone, Christopher Mansfield makes a welcome return for the contest on solo trombone, and Andrew Stephenson is flying in from Belfast to play the Bb bass on the day. Gareth Poole completes the line up on the solo cornet bench.

'Eden' is obviously a big challenge for the band, and even with several personnel changes we have been 100% determined to competePaul Oldfield, Skelmanthorpe Band

Determined to compete

Contest Secretary Paul Oldfield told 4BR: "We were delighted to receive an invite to the English Nationals contest. 'Eden' is obviously a big challenge for the band, and even with several personnel changes we have been 100% determined to compete."

Welcome and thanks

Paul added: "We would like to welcome our incoming players and thank those who are helping to enable us to fulfil our obligations to the English Nationals. We also wish to thank Jo and Matt as they relocate, and also thank the other outgoing players Charmian Gott, Helen Turnbull and Dave Lindley."