Kim Ward, daughter of legendary tenor horn soloist Bryan Smith has joined Grimethorpe Colliery as their newly appointed assistant librarian.
Although steeped in brass banding through her late father's association with the Yorkshire outfit, Kim never learned a brass instrument (she played clarinet instead!) but always wanted to make her own link with them.
Proud
Now that has happened, with Kim telling 4BR: "I wish my Dad could see me now — he'd be so proud."
Band Librarian Jon Beaumont (pictured above with Kim) added: "We are so busy with over 40 concerts booked for 2016 alone that as well as recording and contests I need someone to assist me with the day to day working of our huge library. Kim's the perfect person to do just that!"
I wish my Dad could see me now — he'd be so proudKim Ward
Delighted
Musical Director Bob Childs was also delighted that another link to Grimethorpe's proud history has been reconnected.
"'I played in Grimethorpe when Bryan was on solo horn. He was a wonderful player with a glorious sound — and was such a character.
I'm sure Kim will be a great asset to us and I know that her 13 year old son Brandon has also got his cornet sights set on a position in the band too — so I'm sure Bryan would be delighted by that as well."