Grimethorpe Colliery Band has announced that Robert Westacott, has been appointed the new principal cornet of the band with immediate effect.

Impressed

Band Manager Terry Webster confirmed this morning to 4BR that the former top man of Hepworth (Cookson Homes) will take over the top chair straight away.

"Rob has been helping the band out in the last few weeks and we have been immensely impressed by him. The decision has been taken by the conductors and management to appoint Rob with immediate effect.

"He will make his contesting debut with the band at Bradford and his first appearance as the official principal cornet at Llandudno on February 22nd. We are all delighted to have secured such a fine player."

Rob has been helping the band out in the last few weeks and we have been immensely impressed by himBand Manager, Terry Webster

Bumper up

Terry also confirmed that the experienced Alan Hobbins has also been appointed as bumper up. "Alan comes to us as one of the most experienced players around. It is a another significant signing."

Alan was last seen playing principal cornet with Leyland at the RNCM Festival of Brass and it means that Grimethorpe have acted swiftly to secure the services of two top cornet players from rival bands.

New baritone and bass trom

In addition Grimethorpe has also signed Mike Wells from Fairey to the solo baritone position and Gareth Sykes on bass trombone. Up until a few weeks ago Gareth was playing with the former YBS Band.

Not finished

Terry also added that the signing spree has not yet finished. "We have a couple of vacancies that will be filled in the next few days, with a new second cornet and Eb tuba coming to the band."

After the problems following the departure of Roger Webster from the band, Grimethorpe has acted quickly to secure new signings, something Terry Webster is pleased about.

"We have had a great deal of interest from players wishing to join us, but we have taken our time and managed to get the right players for the job."