Grimethorpe Colliery Band has confirmed the appointment of Kirsty Abbotts as its new flugel horn player.

The news comes ahead of their British Open challenge next weekend with the former principal cornet player of Sellers International, Carlton Main and Hammonds looking forward to helping them to a sixth victory at the event.

During those tenures she claimed multiple solo awards and widespread critical acclaim for her performances at major championship events.

Delighted

Kirsty has been enjoying helping the band on flugel and now takes on the role on a permanent basis. "I'm delighted after covering the seat for a few months. I've been made to feel very welcome, and I'm honoured to be joining at such an exciting time for the band."

Outstanding

Equally delighted is Musical Director Ben Dixon who added: "Kirsty is an outstanding musician, and her reputation speaks for itself.

She brings a huge amount of experience and quality to the role and having worked with the band on a number of occasions already knows the organisation well and has always fitted in brilliantly.

Like everyone else we're all looking forward to hearing what her perform with the band in the years to come."