THE world-renowned Grimethorpe Colliery Band has announced its new solo trombone.

Lewis Bettles has performed with many of the UK’s leading orchestras, including The Hallé, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Scottish Opera, Royal Northern Sinfonia and Manchester Camerata.

His international performing career has included appearances at the Musikverein in Vienna with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra and at the BBC Proms in Japan with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra.

He said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be joining Grimethorpe Colliery Band at such an exciting time for the band as it continues to grow and strengthen.

“I’m especially looking forward to working with Allan Withington and Ben Dixon, two of my favourite conductors in the brass band world.

“I’m excited for what lies ahead.”

Musical director Ben added: “Lewis is a tremendous addition to the band and brings a wealth of musical experience from across the orchestral and brass band worlds.

“He is an outstanding trombonist and his enthusiasm for the band’s future was clear from our very first conversations.

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“We’re delighted to welcome him to Grimethorpe and look forward to everything he’ll bring to the chair.”

Lewis will make his debut with Grimethorpe Colliery Band this weekend at the Gala Theatre, Durham.