Albert Hall qualifiers Wingates have shown their intent to make it a major contest 'qualification double' this year with the announcement that they will take to the stage at the Grand Shield in Blackpool this weekend with seven brand new signings in the ranks (above).

13 players

It brings the tally to 13 since the turn of the year as MD Paul Andrews aims to see one of the most famous names in UK banding once again become a regular challenger at the National Finals and British Open.

Success breeds success and due to the foundation of quality concerts and high profile finishes in major contests the band found new players wanting to join a forward thinking outfitPaul Andrews

Success

Paul told 4BR: "Success breeds success and due to the foundation of quality concerts and high profile finishes in major contests the band found new players wanting to join a forward thinking outfit. However, all of these players realise that with position comes responsibility."

New faces

Joe Gibson and Nichola Gates join the back row cornet team whilst Dave Houghton completes the tuba section. Philip Bracegirdle comes in on euphonium and Jack Percy on bass trombone along with a brace of new percussionists in Matthew Densfield and Rai Hirst.