Alder Valley Brass has pulled off perhaps the highest profile signing of the new contesting season with the announcement that Sir Brian May CBE, the legendary lead guitarist with the iconic rock band Queen, has agreed to become their new Honorary President.

Band neighbour

Sir Brian who is a neighbour of the band follows in the footsteps of renowned comedy actors Ronnie Barker and Ronnie Corbett who also filled the role. As Aldershot Brass Ensemble the band famously appeared on a brace of 'Two Ronnies' BBC television shows in the 1970s.

The band stated: "We now look forward to the chance to play arrangements of Queen music especially for Sir Brian, including 'Bohemian Rhapsody', 'Don't Stop Me Now' and, particularly, the Brian May composed 'Fat Bottomed Girls'.

Pleasant surprise

Making the announcement on their Facebook page the band stated that Sir Brian said it was 'a pleasant surprise' and that he was 'very honoured' to be asked to fill the role.