Yorkshire Area champion Carlton Main Frickley Colliery has announced that former Tongwynlais Temperance principal cornet player Vicki Kennedy (pictured leading the Welsh Band) will be joining the front row cornet bench in time to appear with them at the forthcoming British Open.

Father's shoes

The Royal Welsh College of Music graduate made an impressive name for herself leading the Welsh Area champion, but has since returned to the family home in Doncaster to step into the shoes of her father Stewart, who is continuing to make a welcome recovery from illness.

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The popular cornet player is also hoping to make a return to the band – although after the British Open in Birmingham, and has been keen to express his personal thanks to all of those who have offered support to the Kennedy family over the last few months.

Wonderful return

Band spokesperson Toni Howden told 4BR: "It’s wonderful to see Vicki with us, and even better news that Stewart will soon be joining her in the cornet ranks.

Stewart is a great team player and has already made a few appearances in the bandroom following his operation, much to the delight of the whole band."

It’s wonderful to see Vicki with us, and even better news that Stewart will soon be joining her in the cornet ranksCarlton Main Frickley Colliery Band

Back soon

Toni added: "This transition for the family will no doubt have done wonders for Stewart's recovery and the band are looking forward to seeing him back in his seat as soon as he is fully fit."