After a successful start to 2018 which has seen them qualify for the National Finals, the Leyland Band has announced a trio of new signings.

New players

Steve Ridler (horn), Ryan Broad (solo cornet) and Ellen Sides (percussion) all join with immediate effect, with Steve and Ryan returning having enjoyed previous spells with the north-west band.

Steve was with Leyland as principal cornet under Richard Evans in the 1980s, and went on to play with JSVB, Brighouse & Rastrick and Brisbane Excelsior.

Since returning to the UK in 2014, he has enjoyed spells with Foden's, Wingates and Hepworth, but is delighted to return to Leyland.

Meanwhile, after helping the band secure National qualification, Ryan has been able to commit full time to playing. He also played with Leyland for a number of years before taking a break to complete his degree level studies.

Currently studying Popular Music & Recording at the University of Salford, Ellen completes the percussion section. Whilst at university, Ellen plays with the Salford University Brass Band, which builds on her previous enjoyable experience at Wingates.

It's great to welcome Steve, Ryan and Ellen, who between them bring so much experience and musical qualityMD, Thomas Wyss

Quality

Leyland Musical Director, Thomas Wyss told 4BR: "It's great to welcome Steve, Ryan and Ellen, who between them bring so much experience and musical quality.

After such a positive performance at the Area, I'm delighted with the way in which the band is strengthening as we look towards the British Open and National Finals."