The South Yorkshire Police Band has announced the signing of a new principal cornet player in time for their season opening title assault at the Butlins Mineworkers competition in Skegness.

Experience

The experienced Leisa Mallelieu joins from Grange Moor, after gaining considerable success with Yorkshire Co-operative and Flixton respectively.

MD Leigh Baker told 4BR: "I'm delighted to secure Leisa's services. She impressed me at Grange Moor and her fantastic cornet sound and top technique is the real icing on the cake for us. We're all very excited about 2011 after a string of excellent results in 2010 and this is a big boost for the band."

We are starting the year with such a strong team and welcome these quality new players to the ranksMD, Leigh Baker

Lovely player

Meanwhile, Sally Howley joins on flugel. Sally was also a member of Grange Moor and also enjoyed success with Yorkshire Co-operative and Flowers.Leigh added: "Sally is a lovely player who has the ‘Howley sound’ (alongside husband Michael) and is another great addition to the band."

Respected

Due to a holiday commitment the band are also welcoming BBb bass player Gordon Eddison to the Butlins team. Gordon was a member of the famous Hammonds Sauce Works bass section and is a highly respected conductor and teacher.

And because of impending dental work, Helen Tomlinson is taking a short break from the second baritone chair. Michelle Brown, formerly of Stocksbridge has come out of retirement to fill the seat for the contest.

Leigh concluded: "We are starting the year with such a strong team and welcome these quality new players to the ranks."