Darwen Brass has signed up two new players as they start their preparations for the Third Section National Finals in Cheltenham in September, with Gail Curran joining on flugel horn and John Catterall coming in on solo euphonium.

Experience

MD Steve Hartley told 4BR: "We are delighted to have brought on board two players of the calibre of Gail and John as we prepare for Cheltenham. They bring a wealth of experience and both are first class musicians."

Gail comes to Darwen after successful spells with Freckleton, Blackpool Brass, and more recently BMP Goodshaw, whilst John has played with the likes of Rochdale Wilsons, Wingates and Blackburn & Darwen.

We are delighted to have brought on board two players of the calibre of Gail and John as we prepare for CheltenhamMD Steve Hartley

Working hard

Steve added: "We are currently working hard on ‘Symphony for Brass’, and also preparing for a concert at Darwen Library Theatre in September. We extend a warm welcome to both Gail and John, and look forward to a long and happy association with them."