There have been some important personnel changes at Skelmersdale Prize Band.

Although the band missed out on the prize-winning frame at the recent Brighouse March & Hymn Tune contest, the event marked a fitting swan song for their highly respected soprano player Kenny Pain.

Sop departure

Kenny joined just before their Third Section National Final victory in 2022 and has been an integral part of their growing success since, notably featuring as their soloist at the Bolsover contest.

Speaking about his departure, MD Ben Coulson said: "Kenny has been such an asset. His attitude has been incredibly influential and his joyful banter infectious. He'll be sorely missed."

His place will be filled by long-standing principal cornet player James Ball, with the MD adding: "I've always thought that James had the potential to be an outstanding soprano player.

Like Kenny he has all the attributes needed to make a sublime performer, and I really look forward to working with him in this role."

Lizzy is a fine player and brings with her a wealth of knowledge after a long tenure on principal cornet primarily with Longridge. She has so much to offerMD, Ben Coulson

New principal and co-principal

That move has in turn created an exciting opportunity for new principal cornet appointment Elizabeth Hemingway.

In welcoming her, Ben Coulson said: "Lizzy is a fine player and brings with her a wealth of knowledge after a long tenure on principal cornet primarily with Longridge. She has so much to offer."

The final move sees Adam Galloway come in as co-principal cornet, with Ben adding: "Adam has been with us for some time now and is an extremely accomplished player."