Yorkshire Area champions City of Bradford has announced a number of new signings ahead of their preprations for the First Section National Finals in Cheltenham in September.

Experienced trio

The highly experienced trio of Jim Ely, Trevor Slade and Steve Rollins come in from Cornerstone Brass, Diggle and Hebden Bridge respectively, whilst a future percussion star has been unearthed in 14 year old Harry Lewis from Lindley.

Awesome

A delighted MD Lee Skipsey told 4BR that the signings bring extra quality to the Yorkshire contenders as they look to add a second National title to their CV following their Third Section victory in 2011.

"Jim is an awesome player, who I’ve known for a number of years with his brilliant playing with the Salvation Army, whilst Trevor is as good a bass trombone player you could wish to hear. His playing with James Shepherd Versatile Brass is incredible.

Steve is the perfect player to help the band out — although busy with his work he is more than happy to fit in the percussion section where he can and bring his experience to bear."

He reminds me of myself a bit! He is confident but willing to learn, is keen to improve and keen as mustardCity of Bradford MD, Lee Skipsey.

Reminder

It is young Harry Lewis who is really making a mark though. "He reminds me of myself a bit!" Lee chuckled. "He is confident but willing to learn, is keen to improve and keen as mustard.

I think he is going to be a real star — and comes to the band at just the right time as we will need five great percussion players for the National Finals."