The Haslingden & Helmshore Band has welcomed the appointment of its new MD Huw Thomas.

After suffering a somewhat turbulent time in the past few months the band is now back on the road to recovery, with the appointment of the experienced Welshman the latest step in the right direction.

Great boost

Bass trombonist Phil Smith told 4BR: "This is another great boost in the process of rebuilding the band — a task that looked impossible as little as three weeks ago when we were struggling to have enough players to perform 10-piece music!

We seriously considered dissolving things, but with a rich 147 year history at stake we were not going to throw the towel in. We all decided the emphasis should be on getting players and a MD in — and the response has been so encouraging."

Looking forward

After placing adverts on 4BR, the band is now looking forward to the future — led by Huw.

Phil added: "I received a call from Huw who urged us to continue and also offered to take a rehearsal or two until we found our feet. Now there is a real buzz about the band again — and he has given things such a boost."

Not to give up

Huw is also delighted that he was able to help a band that was determined not to give up.

"I've been the conductor of Blackburn & Darwen for a few years and I've known all the local valley bands in Rosendale.

I've conducted Haslingden a few times in the past and have a real soft spot for them: They are genuine hard working people, so when a friend told me of what had happened I felt I had to offer some help."

We seriously considered dissolving things, but with a rich 147 year history at stake we were not going to throw the towel inBass trombonist Phil Smith

Thanks

Phil said "I cannot thank 4BR, Huw and the northwest banding community enough. After just three rehearsals under Huw we have secured six new top class players — mainly due to the fun, fast, quality rehearsals that are his trademark."

Huw will now take on the MD role along with his existing commitments to the Championship Section Blackburn & Darwen Band.

"I've have already been through both bands jobs list and am fully confident I can deliver a first class service to both and ensure the very high quality rehearsals that they now expect from me."

More to come

And as for the rejuvenated band? "We have some very exciting events and projects coming up and news of more new players to come,"Phil said. "It shows that no band should ever give up."