Ireland Colliery Chesterfield Band has announced the appointment of Richard Windle as their new Musical Director.

Before becoming a music teacher, Richard studied music at the University of Huddersfield and has also enjoyed spells as player with Brighouse & Rastrick, Carlton Main Frickley and Grimethorpe Colliery, where he was part of their 2015 British Open success.

Huge thrill

Richard currently conducts Dobcross Youth Band and was until recently the MD of Grimethorpe Youth Band.

Richard, who began playing trombone with Ireland Colliery told 4BR: ""It's a huge thrill to return to the band I started playing with.

I've been very fortunate to have spent the last twenty years performing in some of the world's greatest concert Halls with Grimethorpe — and I owe that all to being given free tuition and an instrument from Ireland Colliery Band as a youngster."

He added: "It is a great honour to now return as their Musical Director. As well as achieving contesting success, it's my hope that more young people in the local area can benefit from the opportunities I was given."

It is a great honour to now return as their Musical Director. As well as achieving contesting success, it's my hope that more young people in the local area can benefit from the opportunities I was givenRichard Windle

Delighted

Band Manager Craig Bramford added: "We are delighted to welcome Richard to the role as Musical Director. The band looks forward to working with him and to a partnership of success building on the solid foundation and rise of previous years under our previous MD."

Richard will make his contesting debut with the band at the Butlins Mineworkers Championship on January 16th.