The ambitious City of Bradford Band has announced the latest signing to its ranks, with former Black Dyke timpanist Neil Edwards joining the Yorkshire band.

Highly respected

The move sees the highly respected percussionist rejoin his former Dyke colleague and Bradford MD Lee Skipsey in the band’s percussion section at a time when they have just moved into a brand new rehearsal facility in preparation for contesting life in the First Section in 2013.

Quality

Lee told 4BR: "It’s brilliant news for the band that we are able to attract a player of Neil’s quality. I enjoyed many years with him at Black Dyke and know that he is a fantastic player.

His experience and musical guidance will be invaluable to us as we look forward to our debut in the First Section next year."

His experience and musical guidance will be invaluable to us as we look forward to our debut in the First Section next yearMD, Lee Skipsey.

New rehearsal facility

The new addition will now be able to enjoy the band’s sparkling new rehearsal facility too, although Lee confirmed that there are still a few dabs of paint still to apply to before the official opening.

"We have moved into a brilliant new rehearsal space – and one that has also been kitted out to include a players’ lounge and a choir room so that we can utilise a great space for the community."

He added: "We have taken time over the acoustic and have made sure that we get everything right, so all that is left now is a bit more painting and decorating before we can make the most of what I believe will be one of the best bandrooms in the country."