Dobcross Silver Band is looking forward to the new contest season boosted by new signings.

Ahead of the Third Section North West Regional Championship to be held at Blackpool's Winter Gardens on Sunday 23rd February, they welcome a quintet of arrivals.

New arrivals

Mark March comes in on repiano cornet. Having started his musical journey with Dobcross Youth in 1989, he has enjoyed tenures at Uppermill, Marsden, Boarshurst, NW Coop Rochdale and Milnrow before returning to playing after time in the services by joining the band in December.

Dave Woodward takes on the solo baritone role. With a CV that harks back to 1967 with Linthwaite Band he now brings vast experience to the band.

Tuba, cornet, trombone

Nick Macaninch joins on Eb tuba. He discovered banding at university before moving to the village and now joining the band. Ben Warrington comes in on second cornet and brings excellent experience with tenures at Middleton, Diggle and music study at Salford University and the University of Huddersfield.

The signings are completed by the experienced John Horsfield on bass trombone, who after a break returns to banding.

These are exciting times for the band as we look ahead to the Regional Championships in BlackpoolMD, Jason M Smith

Significant

Speaking about the arrivals, MD Jason M Smith told 4BR: "We're delighted to welcome the players to our ranks. They bring significant experience and in addition to their playing prowess they add value as great team players.

These are exciting times for the band as we look ahead to the Regional Championships in Blackpool."