Flixton Band has announced four new players to their ranks.

A belated greeting goes to Mark Willans who joined on 2nd Trombone shortly before the Wilkinson’s Northern Open contest in November. Mark is a former member of Flixton, but has more recently played for the Hoover (Bolton) Band.

Also joining the band from Old Hall Brass are husband and wife team, Gareth and Helen Hopkin on first baritone and second euphonium respectively. The fourth signing is Chris Noakes on Repiano Cornet, who joins from Littleborough where he recently returned to banding.

I'm very pleased to welcome these new players to the band. It is excellent news both for the band’s stability and musical development, as all four are accomplished and experienced bandsmenMD Iain McKnight

Welcome

Musical Director Iain McKnight tolf 4BR: "I'm very pleased to welcome these new players to the band. It is excellent news both for the band’s stability and musical development, as all four are accomplished and experienced bandsmen, and will be valuable assets as we look towards the 2008 contesting season and beyond. I wish them all a long and happy stay with us here at Flixton!"

2007 success

2007 has been a successful year for the band, with triumph in the contesting arena as well as marking the band’s 130th anniversary, which was commemorated with a special concert in September.

The band also featured in the 4BR ‘Money List’, having won £2,900 during the 2007 contesting season.

"In addition to our contest prize monies, the band worked very hard over the festive period to raise more than £2,500," said Iain. "This money will go towards the formation of our youth training group, and we hope to be able to provide positive news regarding this in the very near future."