Derwent Brass has announced the signing of Richard Bates on flugel horn.

Richard who most recently played for Wingates and Desford Colliery, joins the Derbyshire based band with immediate effect having played with them at various events over the past 12 months on soprano.

Friends

He told 4BR: "I've been friends with the team at Derwent Brass for some time now, so it's long overdue me joining them! I'm really looking forward to working with a great bunch of musicians under such a quality conductor."

Richard replaces Pam Davis who has been the band's flugel horn and trustee for the past decade.

He is not only a fine player, but he has been a friend of the band and he blends in with our unique setup. I look forward to working with him and wish him a long and enjoyable stayMD. Keith Leonard

Looking forward

Musical Director Keith Leonard told 4BR: "I'm thrilled that we have been able to quickly sign up a player as talented as Richard.

He is not only a fine player, but he has been a friend of the band and he blends in with our unique setup. I look forward to working with him and wish him a long and enjoyable stay."

He added: "On behalf of Derwent Brass I would like to thank Pam for her wonderful commitment over the past 10 years and wish her well for the future."