The Ratby Band has welcomed the signing of two new players.

Tuba

Taking the principal EEb tuba seat with the Midlanders is Hywel Williams, who is currently studying at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire.

From Neath in south Wales, Hywel studied under Simon Howell, before going on to become principal tuba on the 'Six Counties' brass band courses and a member of the National Brass Band of Wales, claiming the Margam Abbey solo prize in 2016.

Joining him on BBb tuba is Matt Wilkins who returns to the band after university where he played with the Nottingham University Brass Band and more recently with Foresters Brass.

We are delighted to attract such talent, cementing a really strong foundation for the band as it goes from strength to strengthMD, Dave Purkiss

Strength to strength

Musical Director Dave Purkiss told 4BR: "We are delighted to attract such talent, cementing a really strong foundation for the band as it goes from strength to strength."

Both players will be joining the band full time from the end of the summer season, and after honouring existing commitments at the National Finals in Cheltenham.