Tredegar Band has announced the signing of Robert Westacott as their new soprano cornet player.

He takes over the role from Ian Roberts following their appearance at the European Championships in Birmingham on the weekend. The vastly experienced performer played soprano with Tredegar at last year's National Finals at the Royal Albert Hall (above), where they came third.

Integral part

Speaking to 4BR, Tredegar MD Ian Porthouse said: "We are delighted that Rob has accepted our invitation to join us permanently. He has become an increasingly important part of the band since returning to help us at London and was a vital performer in the run-up and at Symphony Hall.

His commitment matches his talent and we are thrilled that he will be on board with us as we embark on a busy series of high profile concert performances."

He has become an increasingly important part of the band since returning to help us at London and was a vital performer in the run-up and at Symphony HallIan Porthouse

Excellence

Talking about the player he replaces, the MD added: "Ian has been an outstanding performer for us over the past decade and we wish him well. He has been a cornerstone of excellence in our commitment to our musical projects as well as contest and concert performances.

We are sorry to see him leave, but we have also managed work around his ongoing health issues and and family commitments for some time now by bringing in Rob, so this has been something of an anticipated outcome."

4BR understands that the player has informed the band that he has agreed to join Cory.