Oxford Cherwell Brass has said a fond farewell to principal cornet, Stephen Clapton, who has moved to Sandhurst Silver Band.

However, the band has been quick to find a replacement, with Alan Aston joining in time for the Regional Championships, alongside 'bumper-up' Wayne Mead. Also boosting the front row cornet bench are Saskia Selway and Steve Harris.

New additions

Meanwhile, Frankie Hadland takes on the soprano role with Kelvin Ketteringham (conductor of Ascot Brass) and talented youngster Sam Pogose completing the back row team. Another up and coming youngster in Maisy Stott will join the band after the Area Championships.

The talented Tom Hughes joins on percussion alongside regulars David and Chris Hadland with James Mitcham taking the bass trombone role with David Baldwin completing the section. Steve Atherton joins on Bb tuba with Olivia Yarker-Samuel coming in on horn.

Looking forward

A spokesperson told 4BR: "With all the changes in the band now finalised, we are looking forward tackling Kit Turnbull's wonderful test-piece, 'The Golden Sabre'.

We also wish Steve all the best in his new role with Sandhurst."