The Leyland Band has boosted its ranks ahead of its appearance at the forthcoming British Open Championships in Birmingham in September.

The North West band has welcomed the signing of the experienced Andrew Lofthouse on soprano.

The former principal trumpet of the Central Band of the Royal Air Force, and lead trumpet in the Royal Air Force Squadronaires he also enjoyed a successful tenure as conductor of Marsden Silver Prize as well as a freelance performer with many leading bands in the UK and Europe, including Eikanger-Bjorsvik.

Delighted

Speaking about the signing MD Danny Brooks said: "I'm delighted to welcome a player of this quality to the band. Andrew is not only a player with incredible talent but superb experience and knowledge.

He will bring these qualities and much more to Leyland and I'm really excited to work with him."