The newly crowned Grand Shield champion Whitburn has announced that they will be conducted by Paris Brass Band MD, Florent Didier at this year's British Open Championship.

Delighted

Whitburn President, David Kinross commented: "We are delighted to have secured the services of one of the finest and most vibrant conductors in European banding as we make our return to the British Open."

This year's set-work, 'Fraternity' by composer Thierry Deleruyelle, will be familiar to both the band and conductor, as Dave added: "It was especially important for us to qualify this year as the test-piece is one that we are very familiar with, having performed it at the 2016 European Championships in Lille.

That was also a great weekend for Paris Brass Band and Florent, so we are hopeful that our new take on the 'Auld Alliance' will pay dividends at Symphony Hall. The Open is a very big challenge, but we couldn't be happier with our appointment and look forward to getting to work together."

The Open is a very big challenge, but we couldn't be happier with our appointment and look forward to getting to work togetherWhitburn President, David Kinross

Looking forward

The move comes as Whitburn's professional MD Prof Nicholas Childs, who led the band to the Scottish Open, Scottish Championship and Grand Shield successes will be conducting Black Dyke at the contest.

In response Florent, who will be making his British Open debut, added: "I'm looking forward to working with Whitburn, who are enjoying a highly successful artistic and contesting period."