The Oldham Band (Lees) has announced a number of new signings ahead of the 2013 contest season.

Horn experience

The highly experienced Ian Harper joins on solo horn after coming out of retirement following an illustrious career that has seen him perform with the likes of Brighouse & Rastrick, Fairey and Yorkshire Imperial.

Joining Ian in the horn section will be Tracey Daniel who returns on second horn following a brief spell with Rainford, whilst former Dobcross Youth Band principal cornet, Charlotte Cockburn comes in on the back row on repiano after making a huge musical impression on MD, John Collins at a recent slow melody contest.

I’m thrilled to welcome our new players to the band and all these moves have strengthened us massively ready for our push for promotion to the Championship Section this yearMD, John Collins

Euphs complete

Finally, after Ben Wright's move to Black Dyke was confirmed, James Brooks moves to solo euphonium with former solo euphonium Jawain Pilgrim joining him to complete the section.

MD, John Collins told 4BR: "I’m thrilled to welcome our new players to the band and all these moves have strengthened us massively ready for our push for promotion to the Championship Section this year. We just can't wait to get back on the contest stage!"