Foden's has announced the signing of two new players as they prepare for their British Open challenge in Birmingham in September.

Solo baritone

Ashley Jeffers comes in on solo baritone, whilst Wilson Taylor joins the solo cornet section. They replace Sarah Lenton and Luke Pallister, who Foden's thanked for their commitment to the band.

Ashley spent 13 years with the successful Pemberton Band organisation — rising from the 'B' Band to the senior ensemble. Since 2014 she played with Leyland as solo baritone, and made her first appearance with Foden's at their recent concert with James Morrison.

Solo cornet

Meanwhile, Wilson Taylor joins from Tredegar, where he has enjoyed a highly successful period on their solo cornet bench during his studies at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire.

It is something of a return home as he is a product of the 'Lions' organisation in Sandbach and was a member of the Foden's Youth Band. He recently graduated from Birmingham where he was also the principal cornet of the Conservatoire brass band.

Both players bring a wealth of experience and will be major additions as we look forward to the new contesting seasonBand Manager, Mark Wilkinson

Top quality

Speaking about the appointments, Band Manager Mark Wilkinson told 4BR: "We are extremely pleased to welcome these two top quality signings.

Both players bring a wealth of experience and will be major additions as we look forward to the new contesting season."