Pontardulais Town Band has welcomed the appointment of Rob Westacott as its new Musical Director.

The vastly experienced musician plays soprano with Tredegar and in recent times has enjoyed conducting Tylorstown and City of Cardiff M1. His CV also includes elite level playing tenures at Black Dyke, Grimethorpe and Brighouse & Rastrick as well as directing Slaithwaite and Lindley.

Next chapter

A Pontardulais spokesperson told 4BR: "Rob is passionate about the development of brass banding and its repertoire, while retaining the heritage and traditions of the movement. We're very much looking forward to beginning this next chapter with him."

The duo make their debut together at the forthcoming SEWBBA Entertainment Contest in Tonyrefail.

20 years

His appointment comes as Paul Jenkins temporarily steps back after 20 years at the helm of the West Wales band.

Having started as a junior player he took the baton in 2006, leading them to outstanding success, including Welsh Regional and Open victories, promotion to the Championship Section and qualification to the British Open Spring Festival.

Following a promotion at work which now requires him to travel across the UK, he told 4BR that he had to make the difficult decision for the next 12 months so that he can focus on his new role and spend more time with his young family.

I know the band will continue to be extremely successful under Rob's baton. He brings with him exceptional experience, and I know the band will work extremely hard under his leadershipPaul Jenkins

Honour

"I've had the honour of being Pontardulais conductor for the past 20 years. The band will forever remain close to my heart, but I'm always on hand to pop in with a baton or instrument in hand over the next 12 months if required.

I know the band will continue to be extremely successful under Rob's baton. He brings with him exceptional experience, and I know the band will work extremely hard under his leadership."