Ashton under Lyne Band has announced that composer, conductor and percussionist Paul Lovatt-Cooper has been appointed as their new Musical Director.

Delighted

A band spokesperson told 4BR: "Paul is well known in the banding world and beyond as an accomplished composer and arranger, and we have delighted to be able to secure his services as he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience as well as a refreshing dynamism to our rehearsals."

He added: "We have already started work on a programme for a busy festive period and further in to our preparations for the North West Regional Championships and Grand Shield contests."