British Open champion Grimethorpe Colliery has announced that Jamie Smith is joining the band as Co-Principal Cornet with immediate effect.

Couldn't miss

The former principal cornet of Hammonds Saltaire Band told 4BR: "I'm really looking forward to joining such a great band. The chance to work alongside Roger Webster was something I couldn't miss out on and to be directed by Dr Robert Childs was a huge attraction.

I've enjoyed eight great years at Hammonds and remain so grateful to them for their support and friendship. I wish them all the very best in what promises to be an exciting future for the band."

Great job

Meanwhile Dr Childs responded: "Jamie accompanied the band on our recent Australian Tour and did a great job. I've known him for a number of years and have enjoyed watching his musical development in the National Youth Band and more recently at Hammonds where he became a top class principal cornet.

Jamie will become a permanent member of the solo cornet bench, covering the Principal Cornet position when Prof Roger Webster is away on solo engagements and Besson commitments."

I've known him for a number of years and have enjoyed watching his musical development in the National Youth Band and more recently at Hammonds where he became a top class principal cornetDr Robert Childs

Shining light

Roger himself added: "Jamie is one of the shining lights in young cornet players today and everyone at Grimethorpe is pleased he accepted the invitation to join the band. He is a player of huge potential."