Ferryhill Town Band have had a busy and successful year, starting last October when they won the Stanley entertainment contest.
In November the band then played in a contest at Holmfirth and were placed second.
In February they won the Durham County Brass Band Association contest at Peterlee, also winning the best soloist, best middle of the band and best conductor, while in March they were placed third at the Northern Regional contest held at Durham’s Gala Theatre.
In June they triumphed at the Beamish March and Hymn Tune contest, wining best march and best hymn. Also in June, the band entered a contest at Easingwold where they were second in their section and came fifth overall, beating bands from higher sections. In July they won the Picnic in the Park contest, held at Houghall, also winning best march and best solo.
The following month they competed at Hardraw Scar contest and were placed second, winning the best march and best hymn tune prizes.
Because of their success, they have now been promoted to the second section.
A spokesperson commented, “We are pleased that we have appointed Gareth Sykes as our new musical director to take us in the higher section. Gareth has a wealth of experience playing in top section bands and the band is excited by his enthusiasm. Our next concerts take place on 11th November, 7pm, at Bishop Auckland Methodist Church and 12th November, 9.30am, at Ferryhill Armistice parade.
Ferryhill & Chilton's local community newspaper.
