Ireland Colliery Chesterfield Band has said thank you to three departing players.

Solo horn Karen Jefferson, solo cornet Zoe Simpson and Eb tuba Nigel Bunting have been valued members of the band over the years, with Chairman Gary Willis extended his thanks for their contribution to its development and success.

He told 4BR: "We would like to thank all three players for their commitment over their time with the band and we wish them well for the future."

Replacements

He also added that replacements had already been secured, with the band welcoming back Rob Smith on solo horn, Gary Willis moving back to Eb tuba and young talent, Kier Evans coming in on solo cornet from Loxley Band.

Kier will be honouring his commitments with Loxley until later in the year, but will also be working with Ireland Colliery too.

We have a committed core of players that enables the band to grow in performance and strengthens the organisationMD, Ian Knapton

Striving

MD Ian Knapton added: "Like any other brass band in the country at the moment, we are striving to fill seats due to the movement of players. We have a committed core of players that enables the band to grow in performance and strengthens the organisation.

We have some great concerts and contests coming up and hope to be back up to full strength by the summer season."