Ireland Colliery Chesterfield Band has welcomed two new players to the ranks ahead of their fourth consecutive National Finals appearance in Cheltenham.

Cornet bench

Harriet Warren and Zoe Simpson take their places on the solo cornet bench from Stamford Brass and Farnworth & Walkden respectively, with Harriet telling 4BR: "I've admired the band, so I'm excited to now be a part of it and hopefully carry on the success they have enjoyed over the years."

Principal Cornet Karen Varley added: "I’ve known Zoe for a few years and know how experienced and hardworking she is. Zoe and Harriet will be great additions to the all women front row at the band."

Moves

Unfortunately, William McLauchlan has decided to leave the band for family reason after two enjoyable years, whilst John Lefley also hangs up his instrument for health reasons, after four highly successful seasons in the cornet section.

Internal moves see Lucy Clipsom take a back seat due to the imminent arrival of her first child any time around the Nationals weekend.

"We now have a few months of preparation for the finals and are all looking forward to seeing how we can compete against some very experienced bands at CheltenhamMD, Ian Knapton

New arrival

MD Ian Knapton told 4BR: "It’s always sad to see people leave but both players have been loyal and committed to the band and have given everything to the cause.

We wish both William and John the best for the future and will see them around — and we all hope the new arrival for Lucy is just delayed a few extra days!"

He added: "We now have a few months of preparation for the finals and are all looking forward to seeing how we can compete against some very experienced bands at Cheltenham."