The Ashton under Lyne Band is geting things in order ahead of their appearance at the Regional Championships.

New Signings

The band has now signed four new players from the old BT Band. Pete Shaw (principal cornet), Matt Henry (assistant principal), Paul Greenwood (baritone) and Mike Emery (percussion), all join in time for tyhe Regionals.

Band spokesperson Louise Marsden told 4BR: "We are very pleased to welcome these talented new players."

New conductor

The band also welcomes the return of conductor, Martyn Evans.

Martyn founded the new Ashton Band in 1996 and his arrival saw the band embarking upon on an un-precedented winning streak.

Chairman Nigel Lawless commented: "We are delighted to have Martyn back with the band again and we are looking forward to recreating that winning streak!"

We are delighted to have Martyn back with the band again and we are looking forward to recreating that winning streakChairman, Nigel Lawless

Contest preparation

Nigel added: "The band have a full rehearsal schedule during the lead up to the North West Area Championships in Blackpool. Martin has put in a great deal of hard work over the past few weeks — he knows what he wants from the piece and has really 'put his stamp' onto the music. With our new signings we are really looking forward to putting on a great show at the contest!"

Website

Ashton have also just finished updating their new website. You can now visit the band at www.ashtonband.co.uk and find out more about their history, meet the players and look at their up and coming engagements.