Ireland Colliery Chesterfield has completed their line-up of personnel ahead of their appearance at the Midlands Regional Championship in Bedworth next month, with the signing of four new players.

The First Section contenders welcome Julian Holling on back row cornet, replacing Mike Thackray who has left due to university commitments, with George Draycott coming in on solo euphonium role.

Nigel Bunting completes the bass line on EEb tuba with Matt Keeling joining the percussion team.

Busy start

Musical Director Ian Knapton told 4BR: “It’s been a busy start to the year with a few changes within the ranks but that hasn't stopped us working hard on ‘A London Overture’.

We are sad to see Mike leave us but understand the reasons and thank him for great service, and I have worked with Julian and Nigel before and know they are real team players, with George and Matt we add even more experience.”

I know where we have come from being in the Fourth Section only 3 years, ago but we are aiming to put all our hard work into place by BedworthMD, Ian Knapton

Debuts

He added: “I know where we have come from being in the Fourth Section only 3 years, ago but we are aiming to put all our hard work into place by Bedworth."

The quartet will make their contesting debuts with the band at the NEMMBA contest on Sunday 22nd February ahead of the Midlands Area Championship on 7th March.