Besses Boys Band has announced a number of new signings to strengthen their ranks ahead of the forthcoming new season.

Cornets

Joining the cornet section are Tom Hurst and Alice Bell on repiano and third cornet respectively.

Tom is the brother of solo euphonium player, Becca, and is currently studying for a PGCE at Manchester Metropolitan University. Alice comes from Sale Brass and worked with MD James Holt in her role as administrator of the Stockport Schools Brass Bands.

Trom and tuba

Meanwhile, Joel Rongong joins on solo trombone from Hawk Green Marple, with the final new face being Ellie Mead on Eb Bass. Ellie also plays for the Stockport Schools Senior Band.

The band also welcomes back Calum Stewart to the Bb Bass section after a period working abroad.

I'm delighted to welcome these new players and they all bring their own strengths and add to the solid team we already haveMD, James Holt

Delighted

MD James Holt told 4BR: "I'm delighted to welcome these new players and they all bring their own strengths and add to the solid team we already have.

They have all settled in well and made their contesting debuts when we came third at the recent Rochdale contest. I hope they all enjoy a long and successful time with us."