The Hazel Grove Band is busy preparing for their forthcoming appearance at the North West Regional Championships in Blackpool on the weekend.

A number of new players have joined the ranks as they look to secure qualification to Cheltenham in the Third Section event at the Winter Gardens.

Experienced

The vastly experienced euphonium player Simon Bastock has enjoyed over 45 years of playing with the likes of Bollington and latterly Glossop Old, whilst the band also welcomes two cornet players with a great deal of experience.

Jonathon Green has resumed playing after a 20 year gap, having previously been a member of Foden's, whilst Debbie Booth previously played for Vernon Building Society Poynton and like Jonathon will bolster the back row cornet section.

Endurance

The band has already welcomed two talented youngsters solo trombone and percussion, as Musical Director Nigel Beasley looks to make a mark at the contest on Andrew Baker's colourful test-piece, 'Endurance'.