The Staffordshire Band has announced the appointment of Sheila Draycott as their new principal cornet. She takes over with immediate effect, with former principal, Adrian Lacey reverting to 'bumper-up'.

Experienced

Sheila is a vastly experienced player — following in the footsteps of her famous brass-playing brothers, Martin and Brian Winter. She has played with numerous bands over the years — from South Midlands Welfare to Rhodian Brass, Ratby Co-Operative, Jaguar Land Rover and the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain for 13 courses.

Honour

Sheila told 4BR: "It's an honour to accept the position and I look forward to leading the band in the best way I can and in making great music for all our audiences to enjoy."

Band Chairman Shaun Elliott added: "Since Sheila joined the band just over a year ago her performances have been outstanding, and we are delighted that she accepted the challenge of taking over the role. She has all the qualities for being a brilliant principal cornet."

Since Sheila joined the band just over a year ago her performances have been outstanding, and we are delighted that she accepted the challenge of taking over the roleBand Chairman Shaun Elliott

Thanks

He added: "Thanks must also go the Adrian who took over the role several years ago and has done a superb job in leading the band through very successful times."