Wantage Band has announced that they will compete at the popular Wychavon Festival of Brass in November and Butlins Mineworkers Championship in January under the baton of Jonny Bates.

Return

It marks a return to the events for the London & Southern Counties band, with the Foden's solo horn player taking over the duties from professional MD Paul Holland, who he has worked alongside.

He has been a regular visitor to the bandroom over the last few months getting to know the Oxfordshire ensemble, bringing along a number of exciting new arrangements.

Great example

He told 4BR: "Wantage are a great example of how brass bands need to be setup to thrive — not only with the community and youth initiatives under the organisation's 'umbrella', but the openness and commitment to new musical ideas and projects mixed with a driven and team-based work ethic.

I'm thoroughly enjoying working with the band and looking forward to the next few months."

The band will be competing in the Grand Shield next year and these two important contests are great for our preparationBand Manager, Sam Wyne

Enjoy

In response to the news, Band Manager, Sam Wyne told 4BR: "The band will be competing in the Grand Shield next year and these two important contests are great for our preparation.

Jonny is fantastic and we are enjoying working with him. With some new players joining us this Autumn and some fresh blood taking on responsibility in the band's management, it's certainly going to be an exciting year ahead."