MEMBERS of a Marsden brass band are blowing their own trumpets after coming first in a competition to take home £750.
The winnings, donated by housebuilder Redrow, went to the well-established Marsden Silver Band after they impressed the judges of the Local Champions Award category at the Saddleworth and Oldham Whit Friday Brass Band Contests.
Alan Widdop, musical director for the band, said: “It means everything to have won this.
“The brass band league works like football and, after the previous musical director left, we sadly lost our championship status.
“This win not only means that we regain that, but it also boosts our reputation and means that we can perhaps attract new members.
“The money will come in extremely handy and will go towards covering our expenses for the next competition.”
Currently building new homes at Meadow View, Moorside Redrow supported the annual contest which saw more than 100 bands from all over the world compete in various categories.
“We were delighted to sponsor a category at the contest as it’s such a lovely, traditional competition and brings together musical talent from all over the country and further afield,” said Lorraine Moores, area sales manager for Redrow Homes (Lancashire).
“Redrow’s contribution provided the area prize pot for the best local band overall, for which bands must be based within an eight-mile radius of Uppermill Village.
“The Marsden Silver Band were worthy winners of the Local Champions Award and we’re thrilled the win will help them to greater success.”
Lorraine and Meadow View sales consultant Michael Deagan were invited along to a special presentation evening to hand over the prize to Alan and his band.
Redrow’s own local champion, Meadow View, off Haven Lane, has three and four-bedroom homes currently for sale. For more information see www.redrow.co.uk/meadowview or call: 0161 638 7484.
