The Oldham (Lees) Band is celebrating for two reasons this week.

First win

Not only have they won their first ever Championship Section contest at Tameside, but they have also announced the signing of horn player Arfon Owen.

The former solo horn of Black Dyke and Grimethorpe made his winning contest debut with the band at Tameside.

Good lad

Conductor John Collins told 4BR: "I met Arfon whilst he was teacher training and was greatly impressed with his playing. He’s also a right good lad and I’m sure will fit in with our band’s young and fun atmosphere. I’m extremely pleased Arfon has decided to take up the solo horn seat with us."

Safe

The move is a safe bet too it seems.

"We’ve had two pregnancies in the horn section recently," John added, "so it’s a safe bet we won’t get a third with him! Arfon brings so much experience and a great deal of talent to the band, and this will give us a great lift."

Delighted

Arfon added: "I'm delighted to be a part of this exciting time for Oldham. The band have made me realise just how much I've missed playing, and I look forward to what promises to be a great future."

Move

With Arfon’s arrival, Tracey Daniel will now occupy the first horn seat after stepping down following the recent birth of her son.