Carlton Main Frickley Colliery Band has announced that they have secured the services of Derek Broadbent as their new Musical Director.

Derek’s career as a conductor has seen him work with the Brighouse and Rastrick, Black Dyke Mills, Williams Fairey and many other bands enjoying numerous successes.

Since the departure of Dennis Hadfield in May of 2007, the Carlton Main hase not had a ‘regular’ musical director. However Derek made an immediate impact with the band performing some impressive performances at prestigious concerts in the run up to Christmas.

The band is pleased to be working with Derek as Musical Director. He has brought a sense of professionalism and enthusiasm into the band room that is pulling the band in the right directionRay Sykes

Sense of professionalism

Chairman Ray Sykes commented to 4BR: "The band is pleased to be working with Derek as Musical Director. He has brought a sense of professionalism and enthusiasm into the band room that is pulling the band in the right direction."

Ray continued: "We hope that 2008 will be a continuation of the great progress made over the past few years, and are looking forward to continued success on the contest and concerts front."

Cobb returns

Meanwhile the band has further strengthened its playing ranks prior to the area contest announcing that Philip Cobb will be playing for them at the Yorkshire Areas on the 2nd March.

Ray Sykes added: "Philip will be renewing his acquaintance with the band and we are sure that his presence will give the Band a massive boost as it begins it's assault on the areas."

In addition to Philip other appointments have also been made over the last few days which the band state will see it put out it's strongest line up for many years.

ISB appointment

Meanwhile, the band has congratulated Andy Dickinson on his appointment to the International Staff Band of the Salvation Army.