Grimethorpe Colliery Band has welcomed Andrew McMillan as their new solo horn player.

The former graduate of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland has not only gained critical acclaim for his performances with Whitburn Band on the contest stage but more recently as a featured artist in the musical production of 'Keli' and with his debut solo CD release 'Time Pieces'.

Proud

On joining the Yorkshire band, he said: "I'm incredibly proud. It's an honour to become part of such an iconic band, and I can't wait for what lies ahead."

In welcoming him, MD, Ben Dixon added: "Andrew is one of the most exciting young players in the country. He combines outstanding musicianship with a fantastic attitude, and we're delighted. He has a very bright future ahead and we're thrilled that he'll be part of the next chapter in our journey."

Andrew made his debut with Grimethorpe at the Nevill Holt Festival last month and will relocate from Scotland to South Yorkshire this summer to take up the role.

Best wishes and thanks

He has also left with the best wishes of his former band, with Whitburn stating: "Andrew has been a leading soloist with Whitburn across the past five years. He has won the Scottish Championships four times, and the Grand Shield. He has been a three-time winner of the 'Best Horn' prize at the Scottish Championships, a two-time winner of Whitburn's 'Player of the Year' accolade and was voted Whitburn's 'Players' Player of the Year'.

We would like to thank Andrew for his fantastic contribution to Whitburn, and we wish him all the best for the future."

In thanking Whitburn in return, Andrew added: "I will always be very grateful for my time there and all the friends I have made along the way, and wish the band all the success in the future."