The Ratby Co-operative Band has announced the signing of Richard Bates as their new soprano player.

Richard helped the band this year's All England Masters Championship after playing with Derwent Brass on flugel horn and previously playing with the award winning Youth Brass 2000, Wingates, Virtuosi GUS and Desford.

Fantastic

Ratby MD Mareika Gray told 4BR: "It's fantastic to be able to welcome Richard on soprano. His beautiful tone and depth of playing experience will add a great strength to the band and I really look forward to working him again."

Returning

Also returning on solo cornet is Guido D'Amore, who has been playing principal cornet for the Ratby 'Mid' Band, and Evie Dunn, who returns to the back row following her examinations.

Completing the cornet section is Melissa Underwood who has graduated through the Ratby organisation to join the senior ensemble.

His beautiful tone and depth of playing experience will add a great strength to the band and I really look forward to working him againMD, Mareika Gray

Thanks

A spokesperson told 4BR: "We would like to take this opportunity to express our thanks to our former soprano player Steve Alexander for his many years of hard work and commitment to the Ratby organisation. The band and its supporters wish Steve well in his career."