The reigning Butlins and West of England Regional Champion, Flowers, have acted swiftly to strengthen their solo cornet section ahead of their appearances at the forthcoming British Open and National Championship of Great Britain.

Baby arrival

Former Grimethorpe Colliery principal cornet Iain Culross (above) has been drafted in take on the principal cornet role at Symphony Hall as work commitments and the imminent arrival of a new baby sees Andrew Smith move temporarily to fourth man down.

Belgian star Harmen Vanhoorne will take on the role at the Royal Albert Hall, as Andrew enjoys the welcome addition to the family.

New additions

Also joining the front row full time is Mitch Siviter, who comes from the Jackfield Band where he was principal cornet, whilst the percussion team has been strengthened with Fran Lombardelli joining from Jaguar Land Rover Band.

Both Mitch and Fran have been recent members of the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain.

To be able to secure two world class cornets players for a very important period in the banding calendar is a massive boost for usBand Manager, Lee Downie

World class

Band Manager Lee Downie told 4BR: "The band would like to thank Becky Cale for all her hardwork and commitment over the past three years.

To be able to secure two world class cornets players for a very important period in the banding calendar is a massive boost for us. Also being able to attract two young full time players to further strengthen is also a positive step for the future."