Tongwynlais Temperance Band has dipped its toe into the transfer market just in time for their appearance at the National Finals at the Royal Albert Hall on the weekend, with news of the signing of tuba player Ben Pepler.

Winning debut

Ben comes from the Woodfalls Band and made a winning debut with the band at the Fishguard Welsh League contest on the weekend.

He is currently a second year student at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama studying with Dan Trodden from BBC National Orchestra of Wales.

Real boost

Band Chairman Iestyn Davies told 4BR: "Ben has been a real boost and has been a hardworking member of the bass section whilst waiting to be signed to the Welsh Registry.

He performed with real distinction at the Grand Shield as a guest player and we're now delighted to have him firmly on board."

Ben has been a real boost and has been a hardworking member of the bass section whilst waiting to be signed to the Welsh RegistryBand Chairman Iestyn Davies

Looking forward

Ben added: "I'm really pleased to be an 'official' member of Tongwynlais. We have a great mix of players and characters and I'm looking forward to playing my part in an ambitious band.

It was also great to mark my first official performance with a win!"