Tongwynlais Temperance has announced a quintet of new signings in time for their forthcoming appearance at the British Open in Birmingham.

British Open Champion

Former British Open Solo Champion Jef Vermieren makes a return to South Wales following his debut with the band at the All England Masters to play principal cornet, whilst Stephanie Wilkins makes a slightly shorter trip across the Severn Bridge from Mount Charles Band in Cornwall to play on the front row.

Stephanie will be moving to Cardiff to study at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in September.

Irish connection

Current RWCMD student Peter Mercer is making the trip over the Irish Sea to play Eb bass, whilst Alan Gifford, who recently made his debut with the band at the Ironbridge Gorge Brass festival joins on second trombone.

Alan is currently studying a BMus(hons) at the Birmingham Conservatoire.

Finally Jamie Jones, current MD of the local Rogerstone Band will play second euphonium at the contest.

We are very excited about welcoming the new members after the summer break and are looking forward to working with them on the run up to the British OpenTongwynlais Temperance

Excited

A band spokesperson told 4BR: "We are very excited about welcoming the new members after the summer break and are looking forward to working with them on the run up to the British Open."

They added: "We would like to publicly thank Charlotte Chambers and Steve Kane for their time with the band and wish them all the best in their new seats at the Cory Band."

In addition to the new faces, a former member, Stuart Pollard returns to the band on cornet following a year of teaching practice.