HATHERLEIGH Silver Band has been busy, with the appointment of new band president Geoffrey Cleverdon, and preparations for the National Brass Band Championships fully underway.

Born and bred in Hatherleigh, Mr Cleverdon has lived and worked at Coombe Farm for many years, and has a great knowledge of music.

The band is looking forward to Geoffrey utilising his expertise as band president.

The band is preparing for the championships in September, and the piece selected for members to play at the finals has finally been revealed — the overture 'Henry the Fifth' by Vaughan Williams.

If you would like to accompany the band to the finals in Cheltenham on September 24, coach travel, bed and breakfast and admission to the finals costs £60 per person.

For details call Marion Quick on 01837 82533 or Jim Reynolds on 01837 810007.