The National Champion Brighouse & Rastrick has announced the signing of experienced cornet player Laura Hirst as their new assistant principal cornet.

In 2010 Laura became the first ever female player in the band's history, and following a short break returns to back up principal cornet player Kathleen Gaspoz.

Delighted

Commenting on her return, Laura told 4BR: "After originally making the difficult decision to leave the band due to family health and an increasing work load, I'm delighted to be in a position where I can once again commit to this great band."

She added: "From helping out in January, I've seen the band's impressive professional attitude first hand.

The standard of individual and team performances is highly inspiring, so it contributed to an easy decision to make. I am looking forward to working closely with Kathleen and of course with Professor David King (above)."

The standard of individual and team performances is highly inspiring, so it contributed to an easy decision to make. I am looking forward to working closely with Kathleen and of course with Professor David KingLaura Hirst

Perfect

Meanwhile, her new cornet colleague commented: "Laura is a great addition to the band,"Kathleen Gaspoz said. "After only a few weeks she has brought her experience and team spirit to bear and has really settled into her position as the perfect bumper-up."