A NEW Musical director has been appointed by Northallerton Silver Band.

Simon McCue replaces David Prest who left after many years service during which he took on many important roles and secured the future of the band.They are now on the lookout for new recruits of all ages and abilities. The band practices.at their base in the Pop Lewis band room in the town's Romanby Road on Mondays and Thursdays at 7.30pm.They say they're looking forward to a busy year with many engagements confirmed including an invitation by BBC Country File to play at Castle Howard on August 27 August.

Simon McCue said his appointment is a dream come true. His love of brass bands started at the age of ten playing with the Salvation Army and later with the Tees Valley Youth Band, Ferryhill and many others but he regards Northallerton Silver Band as his musical home. He added:"My aim is to take the band to greater musical heights, create new interesting projects and hopefully bring about an even more rewarding future for the band."