As two of the Skelmanthorpe Bands head off to Harrogate for the National Finals this weekend, they do so with two new supporters in tow.

Richard Swales and Sally Tate delivered son Oliver Edward on September 11th, whilst Steve and Sharon Barrans added to the supporters ranks with daughter Sophie Emma on August 17th.

End of era

For Sharon, this has marked the end of one era of dedication and the beginning of another, after some 24 years playing with the band. Alex Wilkinson has signed from Gawthorpe Band to cover the cornet part she has had to vacate.

Other new recent arrivals to Skelmanthorpe Band are Colin Burnett on Eb bass from Drighlington and Casimir Pellet from Switzerland, on trombone4BR

Other arrivals

Other new recent arrivals to Skelmanthorpe Band are Colin Burnett on Eb bass from Drighlington and Casimir Pellet from Switzerland, on trombone.

Band Secretary, Paul Oldfield, told 4BR: "When Casimir arrived in August, he didn’t really speak a word of English. Therefore, John Roberts has been even more animated in rehearsals than usual — he’s had to brake down the language barrier in some imaginative ways!"

Fitting departure

The bands’ appearance at the Finals will also mark the fitting departure of solo trombone player Chris Mansfield, as he moves north to study at the Scottish Academy.

Paul told 4BR: "Chris has been a major factor in the success of the band over the last 2 years. I’m sure that interest will be high from Scottish bands as he heads north across the border."

The band are also happy to announce that Paul Thewlis (Horbury) will also be joining as the new permanent 2nd trombone player.