Leyland Band are pleased to extend a warm summer’s welcome to Ashley Jeffers (solo baritone) and Darren Wood (second cornet).

Ashley joins Leyland after nearly 13 years at Pemberton Old Wigan where she progressed from the youth band to the B band before joining the senior band. Having recently completed her degree at the University of Salford, Ashley replaces Hannah Platt who has relocated for work reasons.

Meanwhile, Darren joins from Hepworth, bringing with him thirty-five years of playing experience. Previously a member of Hammonds, BT and Bollington bands, Darren works as a self-employed insurance broker and is replacing Elaine Doran, who is taking a sabbatical from banding ahead of the birth of her first child in October. On joining Leyland, Darren commented: “I’m looking forward to working with a band of Leyland’s quality. They have an excellent concert and contest diary and it really was an opportunity too good to refuse!”

“I would like to both welcome Ashley and Darren to the band and thank Hannah and Elaine for their dedicated service over many years,” said Leyland chairman Iain McKnight. “Ashley and Darren bring both experience and musical quality with them, and I wish them a long and successful time with us.”