Following their excellent podium finish at the recent British Open Grand Shield contest in Blackpool, the Wantage Band has moved quickly to strengthen the ranks with a trio of new signings.

New signings

The conducting team of Paul Holland and Jon Pippen, continues to attract new and experienced personnel, with Russell Jackson (solo cornet), Richard Marley (second cornet) and Lynsey Willis (second horn) now joining the ambitious band.

Although Russell has taken a break from banding in recent years, upon graduating from RNCM he played with Zone One and Milnrow and has freelanced as a trumpet player with the Hallé Orchestra. Russell was part of the cornet team for the band's Blackpool visit but has now formally joined the band.

Now settled in Wantage, the experienced Richard Marley started off playing with Knottingley Band in Yorkshire as well as with the successful Wakefield Schools Band. He also played with the Friary Band for 18 years and spent time with Reading Spring Gardens and St Sebastian Wokingham Band.

Finally, Lynsey joins from Hungerford Town Band where she played solo horn. Lynsey started playing with Horden Colliery Band before graduating from Bradford University.

She has previously played flugel with St Sebastian's Wokingham and horn with Aldbourne band.

Quality players

Speaking about the signings, MD, Paul Holland told 4BR: "It's great to fill our vacant seats, and rebuild the band with these quality, local players. All three are fantastic additions to our team at Wantage."

The band now has a busy time ahead with local appearances to celebrate the Jubilee as well as free outdoor concerts as part of their successful Market Place Brass series and a concert with guest tuba virtuoso Les Neish.