The EverReady Band has said a fond farewell to Andrew Hall, after the player brought to an end 36 years of dedicated service to the North of England band.

True stalwart

For the vast majority of that time Andrew was their hugely respected solo horn, playing an integral part in the band's successes on and off the contest platform, with spokesperson telling 4BR: "He has been a true stalwart — always dedicated, supportive, and the very definition of a great bandsman.

More recently, he's also become quite the expert in crafting the most beautiful raffle hampers too!"

They added: "While we'll miss his playing and presence enormously, we wish him all the best as he moves to join his daughter Isobel at Easington Colliery Band. He leaves with all our thanks and we hope to welcome back as a supporter in the years to come."

New signings

The band has already signed a replacement, as well as adding to the ranks with the arrival of a new solo trombone.

The spokesperson added: "We are delighted that two fantastic young players are joining us in Jake Haygarth and Bethany Peck.

Jake returns to the area after studying at the Royal Welsh College in Cardiff where he played for City of Cardiff Melingriffith and Llwydcoed. He has also played with Fishburn and Easington Colliery and so we are thrilled he joins alongside his fiancé Bethany."

He has been a true stalwart — always dedicated, supportive, and the very definition of a great bandsmanEverReady Band

Experience

Bethany is originally from Northamptonshire and also studied at the Royal Welsh College of Music before undertaking a Master of Professional Performance at the Folkwang University of the Arts in Germany.

She has worked professionally with ensembles including the Firdaus Orchestra at Dubai Expo 2020 and freelanced with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales and the Dortmunder Philharmoniker.