The Leyland Band has continued to strengthen its playing ranks ahead of the British Open in September, with the news that the experienced Gareth Wynne comes into the North West contenders on repiano cornet.

King's Division

Gareth currently serves in the Band of the King’s Division, based at nearby Weeton Barracks, but prior to his army service he was a member of the Band of the Grenadier Guards.

He also has an extensive brass band hinterland having been a member of BT, Point of Ayr, Northop Silver, Staines, Royal Buckley and Blackpool.

White jacket

"I’m delighted to be joining Leyland," Gareth told 4BR. "They are a super band and I look forward to taking the stage at the British Open in the famous white jacket for the first time!"

I’m delighted to be joining Leyland. They are a super band and I look forward to taking the stage at the British Open in the famous white jacket for the first time!Gareth Wynne

Backroom staff

Meanwhile, the backroom staff has also been added to with the return of Mavis Brooks as librarian, a role which she previously filled between 2008 and 2011.

"I would like to extend a warm welcome to Gareth as he joins Leyland," commented Chairman Iain McKnight. "He’s a fantastic musician, and will bring great value to our band. It is also fantastic to welcome Mavis back too.

A band as busy as ours needs to be well supported by an organised and committed librarian and the benefits of her hard work are already noticeable in the bandroom!"