The average age of the Rothwell Temperance Band may have dropped significantly with the news of their latest solo trombone signing, but as the Yorkshire top flight band told 4BR, they also believe 13 year old Joseph Heartfield has given their playing resources a massive boost.

Talent

The talented teenager started playing the instrument aged 6, and has since gone on to perform with a number of high-profile bands across the country, including the National Children's Brass Band for Great Britain, the Yorkshire Youth Band, Elland Youth Band and more recently, Yorkshire Imperial Urquhart.

In the past year alone his prodigious talent was recognised by claiming the Best Soloist award at both the National Youth Championships of Great Britain and the European Youth Championship, as well as taking the soloist prize at the senior level Shirebrook Entertainment Contest.

I'm really excited to be working with him and to be given the opportunity to help develop such a naturally talented musicianRothwell MD, Dave Roberts

Delighted

Rothwell MD, Dave Roberts was understandably delighted in being able to secure one of the UKs most sought after young playing talents. "Joseph is without doubt one of the best young players I've heard in years,"he told 4BR.

"I'm really excited to be working with him and to be given the opportunity to help develop such a naturally talented musician."