Old Silkstone Band has announced several new signings.

Joining the bass section are John Pullin and Derek Stringer. The experienced John joins from Hepworth, whilst Derek brings with him a wealth of knowledge on Bb, joining from Yorkshire Imps.

Experience

Joining solo trombone Chris Hirst formerley of Grimethorpe is Alistair Yoxall on bass and Tim Benson on tenor horn, both from Stannington. Adrian Longbottom (Kippax) and Colin McDonald (City of Coventry) strengthen the baritone and euphonium section whilst the horn section is boosted by Martin Grimes on flugal, formerly of Hatfield.

Finally the cornets welcome Maria Beazer on assistant principal cornet, who returns to Old Silkstone after a period with Hepworth.

The new team will make its contest debut at the Senior Trophy in Blackpool in May.

Quality concert work and good results at recent contests, coupled with the influx of experienced new players puts the band back on track in its quest to return to the championship section for the bands 150th yearChairman Ian Askey

Busy

A busy concert season is underway and the band is working towards its fourth CD recording at the end of May. Old Silkstone's chairman Ian Askey told 4BR: "Quality concert work and good results at recent contests, coupled with the influx of experienced new players puts the band back on track in its quest to return to the championship section for the bands 150th year."

Excellent

He went on to add: "Excellent rehearsals under Alan Exley are now seeing around 22 — 24 brass players and 3 percussion at each practice. Graham Pell the bands secretary has put a lot of hard work into the new signings and to him the band is grateful for its new lease of life."