The Wingates Band has welcomed 11 new players to the band.

It has been busy period for the North West Championship Section ensemble — with recordings in memory of Her Majesty The Queen, performing at a high profile festival and preparing new repertoire for their 150th anniversary next year.

The band will also head to Perth to compete at the Scottish Open in November.

Signings

The signings see Aidan Grant come in on second cornet from the Tyldesley Band and Ben Russon on tuba from Wardle Anderson Brass. Ben is joined by Phil Boardman.

Talented youngster Alice Clarke takes on the solo horn role from Whitworth Vale & Healey Band. The National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain player said: "I'm delighted to have been given the opportunity and excited about working with MD Andrea Price and the rest of the Wingates team."

Euphs and baris

A brand new quartet completes the euphonium and baritone section, with Alex Barron on solo euphonium. The third year RNCM student recently played with Grimethorpe Colliery Band. He is joined by RNCM graduate Lou Semmens who has played with Eccles Borough.

Joshua Fleming takes the solo baritone seat. The American is currently pursuing his Master of Music Performance at the RNCM. Having previously played with Rockville Brass Band he said: "I'm excited for my first experience performing in the Championship Section."

Joshua is joined by the returning Marrianne Garbutt. The experienced performer has also played with Besses, Hammonds and Pemberton Old Wigan Bands.

We're thrilled to have such a wealth of talent joining us and we're still on the lookout for moreWingates Band

Troms and perc

The trombone section is boosted by the experienced Matt Shaw on second trombone, whilst the percussion section sees the experienced Cat Rhodes and RNCM student Nalni Chen take up important roles.

Nalni is a pianist, cellist and percussionist from Taiwan, and in her own words said: "I'm really enjoying it!"

Welcome

Speaking about the appointments, Band Chairperson Andy Mooney said: "We would like to take this opportunity to welcome our new players. We hope they enjoy playing with us and the new projects and concerts we have planned."

He added: "We're thrilled to have such a wealth of talent joining us and we're still on the lookout for more."