It's not just the top Premiership football teams that will be busy in the January transfer window as they look to strengthen their major title silverware aspirations for later in the season, as triple-Yorkshire Champion Black Dyke has shown its statement of intent with the signing of Gavin Saynor as solo tuba.

The Welshman, who has enjoyed a remarkable top-flight career playing with the likes of YBS and more latterly with Fairey since 2015, joins with immediate effect. He will replace Harry Cunningham who is to concentrate on his RNCM studies.

Greatest respect

Speaking to 4BR, Black Dyke's Director of Music Prof Nicholas Childs was understandably delighted at securing the signing of a player he holds in the greatest respect.

"Gavin has always been a player I have wished to work with. He's a remarkable musician and an outstanding bandsman. I look forward to welcoming him into a section that will be further enhanced by his experience and musical artistry."

He added: "I would also like to pay tribute to Harry Cunningham, who relinquished his position to focus on his Masters Degree at the RNCM, which is taking him in a new orchestral direction. We wish him all the very best for the future."

Associate

Prof Childs also confirmed that the appointment has also given the band the opportunity to look towards the future with the additional appointment of Harry Beach as 'associate tuba'.

"We had such interest in the position that we have also been able to assist Gavin, who we appreciate needs to balance family, work and travel commitment with a band that has such a busy schedule as Black Dyke.

It has seen us identify a talented player such as Harry who is a busy, second year student at the RNCM, and past Principal Tuba of the NYBB. I believe there are positives for everyone."

Gavin has always been a player I have wished to work with. He's a remarkable musician and an outstanding bandsman. I look forward to welcoming him into a section that will be further enhanced by his experience and musical artistryProf Nicholas Childs

Looking forward

In response to signing on the Queensbury dotted line, Gavin told 4BR: "I would like to pass on my thanks and best wishes to Garry Cutt and everyone at Fairey Band for a wonderful few years.

I'm now looking forward to joining another great band and working with another exceptional conductor in Prof Childs.

There is such an exciting schedule of major events and projects as well as the major contests and I will relish the opportunities the position offers.

Teaming up with fellow Welshmen Daniel Thomas and Matthew Routley is also something I can't wait for, as is being part of a renowned tuba section."