Brass Bands England has announced that well known brass band photographer John Stirzaker has accepted the appointment to become the organisation’s first Press Officer.

Wealth of experience

A spokesperson told 4BR: "John brings a wealth of experience to this role having started his career in advertising. He has worked in PR and the press, and has had work published both nationally and internationally."

John was a founder member and first Chairman of Swinton Concert Brass and went on to play for Eccles Borough Band. He is currently the bass trombonist of the Radcliffe Band, as well as being a trustee of Astley Youth Band.

Regular presence

Since 2005 he has maintained a regular presence at brass band events as photographer for British Bandsman magazine, producing over 200 front cover images for the publication as well as numerous articles in this time. His photographic work regularly appears on CDs, DVDs and in books.

Delighted

Commenting on his appointment, John told 4BR: "When I first picked up a G trombone 35 years ago I could never have imagined that my love affair with brass bands would lead me to this.

I’m delighted to have the opportunity to work with BBE and I am looking forward to working under the new Chairman Mike Kilroy and the rest of the organisation."

There is a lot of terrific work going on in bands all over England, and in telling the world about the best of what we doJohn Stirzaker

Terrific work

He added: "There is a lot of terrific work going on in bands all over England, and in telling the world about the best of what we do it’s my intention to raise the profile of Brass Bands England and brass bands in general."