The Uppermill Band has announced the appointment of James Garlick as its new Musical Director.

James, who lives locally, has gained widespread elite level musical experience during his career as a player and conductor, performing with the likes of Brighouse & Rastrick, Black Dyke, Grimethorpe, Foden's, Fairey, Cory and Tredegar.

In the professional world the RNCM graduate has also played with the Halle Orchestra, Opera North and the BBC Philharmonic alongside other ensembles such as Flat Cap Brass.

With the baton he inspired Boarshurst Silver over a four-year period — taking them from Third to Championship Section.

Pleased

Speaking about the appointment the band stated: "We are incredibly pleased to have secured James' appointment and he has brought real focus and excitement to the band."

In response, James said: "I'm really pleased to be working with Uppermill. I've been really impressed by their work ethic and am really looking forward to developing the band further."