The Wantage Band has reshuffled its player personnel following the retirement of their respected flugel player Helen Wright.

Principal cornet Sara Wallbridge has taken the opportunity to move to the flugel horn role, whilst the band welcomes former Brighouse & Rastrick player Joe Murray to take over from her.

Thrilled and delighted

A band spokesperson told 4BR: "Sara has been a wonderful principal cornet, most notably on our appearances at the Albert Hall in 2014 and 2016, her solo at the Welsh Open in 2018 and numerous concerts and events. We are thrilled that she will carry this on as our flugel player."

We're delighted to welcome Joe who has now settled in Berkshire. Joe has played with us on previous occasions and we are looking forward to him leading us when we start back with our rehearsals."

Although it sounds a cliche, but Joe was my first choice when looking for a new principal cornetMD, Paul Holland

Looking forward

Talking about the appointment, MD Paul Holland told 4BR: "Although it sounds a cliche, but Joe was my first choice when looking for a new principal cornet.

He is exactly what is needed to help the band to continue to grow and I'm looking forward to working with him when rehearsals start up again."