ARTICLES

National Finals 2002:
Championship Section

Runners and Riders and dodgy predictions

The 2002 National Finals sees 20 bands try and win the coveted title of Champion Brass Band of Great Britain. All 8 regions send two qualifiers and the four bands that occupied the top 4 places at last year’s finals get automatic invitations.

Therefore this year Yorkshire and Lancashire will have four representatives each at the finals whilst the rest send their two qualifying bands to the Albert Hall.

The beauty and the anomaly of the Nationals is that each year some of the top bands in the country fail to get to London, whilst no fewer than seven of last years contenders failed to make it back this year.

The bands and their records are:

Aveley and Newham:
Conductor: Nigel Taken
4BR Ranking: 23
Appearances: 16 (5 as Aveley and Newham)
Debut: 1969 as Newham: 1990 as Aveley: 1995 as now.
Best Result: 5th in 1989 as Newham: 7th as Aveley and Newham 2000
Last Six Years: 1996 onwards (Did not qualify, 17th, 18th, 13th, 7th, 12th)
Last Year: 12th place from the number 1 draw
Overall Record: No Wins: 1 Fifth (1989): 2 Sixths (1985, 1986): 13 Unplaced (1969, 1982, 1984, 1987, 1990, 1992, 1993, 1995, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001)

Aveley qualified for the finals for the sixth consecutive year after coming runners up at the London Regional Championships - a good result off the dreaded number 1 draw. Since then though they have had to endure the disappointment of failing once more to qualify for the Open when they could only manage 4th at the Grand Shield, but they recovered in some style to come home a solid 9th place at the Masters. A hard working band with plenty of talent around the stands and an MD with plenty of experience, if they get a good draw they may improve on last years result, but should struggle to get a toe hold in the top six.

This will be the band's 17 appearance at the Finals, although since both bands amalgamated in 1995 they have never featured in the top six. Results were improving year on year from 1997 to 2000 but the dreaded number 1 draw once more scupperred their hopes last year and even though they played well they would have been a touch disappointed with 12th place. Another midfield finish?

Besses O’ th’ Barn
Conductor: Lynda Nicholson
4BR Ranking: 21
Appearances: 16
Debut: 1900
Best Result: Winners in 1903
Last Six Years: 1996 onwards (DNQ, DNQ, DNQ, DNQ, DNQ, DNQ)
Last Year: Came 6th at North West Area and failed to qualify
Overall Record: 1 Win (1903): 1 Second (1978): 2 Fourths (1935, 1938): 1 Sixth (1981): 11 Unplaced (1900, 1901, 1904, 1921, 1931, 1936, 1972, 1973, 1979, 1980, 1986)

2002 has seen a real upturn in fortunes for Besses, especially since the appointment of Lynda Nicholson. They put in a classy show at the North West Regionals off the number 1 spot to come fourth and gain the last qualifying placer on offer for London – and against a pretty stern field to boot. They carried on the good work at the Grand Shield where they came runners up and booked a place at the Open. A further solid showing at the Masters was rewarded with 11th place and last month they took the stage at the Open to play off the number 1 spot again to come a well-deserved 13th. Another band with plenty of young talent, this will surely be another step in the right direction for them.

Given that Besses were the fourth band ever to play at the Nationals at the inaugral contest, 16 appearances doesn’t seem much for a band with such a rich history. Just the one victory under the legendary baton of Alex Owen in 1903 on “Die Meistersinger” and one second under Roy Newsome in 1978 (also off a number 1 draw). They have only been back 3 times since with a last appearance under the baton Richard Evans in 1986. It’s been a long time coming, but Besses are on the up again, although a midfield placing could be their limit on their return.

Black Dyke:
Conductor: Nicholas Childs
4BR Ranking: 2
Appearances: 69
Debut: 1900
Best Result: 19 Wins
Last Six Years: 1996 onwards (3rd, DNQ, 5th, DNQ, DNQ, 1st)
Last Year: Winners off the number 12 draw
Overall Record: 19 Wins (1902, 1928, 1947, 1948, 1949, 1951, 1959, 1961, 1967, 1972, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1979, 1981, 1985, 1989, 1994, 1995, 2001): 16 Seconds (1900, 1923, 1924, 1930, 1932, 1936, 1964, 1966, 1968, 1969, 1980, 1982, 1983, 1986, 1987, 1989): 10 Thirds (1903, 1913, 1935, 1937, 1938, 1952, 1960, 1973, 1974, 1996): 3 Fourths (1912, 1921, 1934): 3 Fifths ( 1908, 1955, 1998): 4 Sixths (1904, 1926, 1956, 1984): 14 Unplaced (1909, 1920, 1922, 1925, 1927, 1929, 1931, 1933, 1945, 1953, 1958, 1962, 1965, 1990)

Where other would be satisfied, Black Dyke are disappointed. 2002 started so well with a tremendous performance at Bradford to retain their Yorkshire Regional title, but even though they performed admirably at the European Championships in Brussels, they were forced into third place and well beaten by six points by their rivals YBS. The Open saw them given a short straw and off the number three draw they once more gave a top class performance that just had that hint of lack of total conviction about. Third place would have been welcomed by any other band, but it seemed a downcast Dyke who left the stage that day. They therefore come to the Nationals desperate to regain pride, and more importantly the title they won with such panache in 2001. The preparation has surely been done, and with a band of such talent, they will be confident for sure – if the draw is kind that is.

Their record is second to none at the contest. 19 wins in 69 appearances, performances of legend litter their CV here, but they will have to be on top form to retain their crown. Nicholas Childs will be looking for his third win in four years and the band to become the first to make it 20 wins. Somehow you feel the force could well be with them.

Brighouse and Rastrick:
Conductor: Major Ian McElligott
4BR Ranking: 6
Appearances: 53
Debut: 1913
Best Result: 7 Wins
Last Six Years: 1996 onwards (6th, 1st, 1st, 2nd, 4th, 11th)
Last Year: 11th off the number 4 draw
Overall Record: 7 Wins (1946, 1968, 1969, 1973, 1980, 1997, 1998): 4 Seconds (1963, 1967, 1981, 1999): 3 Thirds (1948, 1951, 1975): 6 Fourths (1945, 1949, 1954, 1956, 1995, 2000): 6 Fifths (1913, 1950, 1974, 1979, 1984, 1992): 2 Sixths (1962, 1996): 25 Unplaced (1929, 1930, 1931, 1932, 1933, 1934, 1935, 1936, 1937, 1947, 1952, 1953, 1957, 1958, 1960, 1961, 1966, 1972, 1976, 1977, 1982, 1986, 1988, 1989, 2001)

At the start of 2002, Brighouse were still directed by Allan Withington, the man who had overseen their return to the peaks of the contesting world, but come this years Nationals, Brighouse were on their third new MD in as many months. Things started well enough at the Yorkshire Regionals in Bradford where they booked their place for London with a sturdy account of “Whitsun Wakes” to come home third. However, soon after, Withington was gone and for the Masters they plumbed for the untried talent of Peter Bassano. A restrained performance at Cambridge won many admirers but they could only manage 8th and the man from London was gone as quickly as he came. Their next choice of MD also came as a bit of a shock, but Major who? has become a Major Asset as a finely directed performance in coming 4th at the Open showed. It could well be a return to the top six days at least if things go well.

53 appearances and 7 wins show that Brighouse are at home at the Albert, and their record of late has been mighty impressive – only a inspired performance by Fodens in 1999 denied them their first hat trick of wins, and it is no coincidence that they are one of only a few bands who have the ability to fill the hall with their sound. Should do well and may even be pressing for the highest honours.

Buy As You View Cory:
Conductor: Robert Childs
4BR Ranking: 3
Appearances: 40
Debut: 1924
Best Result: 5 Wins
Last Six Years: 1996 onwards (DNQ, 6th, 6th, DNQ, 1st, 5th)
Last Year: 5th off the number 13 draw
Overall Record: 5 Wins (1974, 1982, 1983, 1984, 2000): 2 Seconds (1948, 1979): 1 Third (1971): 3 Fifths (1972, 1986, 2001): 6 Sixths (1949, 1952, 1967, 1976, 1997, 1998): 23 Unplaced (1924, 1945, 1950, 1951, 1956, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1968, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1978, 1980, 1981, 1988, 1992, 1994)

After the near misses of 2001, 2002 has seen the heavily sponsored BAYV Cory back to winning ways – and winning in style as well. The Welsh Regional title was picked up with perhaps the best performance of all the qualifying bands and this seemed to set them up for what was to be their ground breaking appearance at the Masters. This was denied by a combination of political intrigues Edwina Currie would have been proud of and so they had to kick their heels before their assault on the Open in September. There they were inspired to give a performance that blew apart the opposition and they will surely take that confidence with them to the Albert Hall in search of a repeat of a second “Double” in three years.

40 appearances at the Nationals has seen the Welsh band win on five occasions and their record of late (when they have qualified) has seen them come in the top six on each occasion since 1996. Another band with the ability to fill the hall with sound, they will be there or thereabouts come results time. Whether or not it will be a repeat of 2000 we will have to wait and see, but if anyone beats them, then they will surely have their name engraved on the cup itself.

Camborne Town:
Conductor: Paul Murrell
4BR Ranking: 42
Appearances: 33
Debut: 1946
Best Result: 4th place (1977, 1982)
Last Six Years: 1996 onwards (DNQ, DNQ, 9, DNQ, DNQ, 19th)
Last Year: 19th off the number 19 draw
Overall Record: No Wins: 2 Fourths (1977, 1982): 1 Fifth (1973): 2 Sixths (1951, 1965): 28 Unplaced (1946, 1947, 1948, 1949, 1950, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1972, 1978, 1980, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1993, 1994, 1998, 2001)

At the beginning of the year, rumours were flying around that Camborne were in a state of near collapse. That they are contesting their second successive Nationals is a fine achievement for a hard working band that has battled against the odds somewhat. Frank Renton directed an excellent performance at Bristol where many felt they were unlucky not to retain their Regional title. Second place though meant that their first objective for 2002 had been met. No chance to test themselves against strong opposition as they didn’t get entry to any of the three Grand Shield contests or the English Masters, but this has given them the time to prepare for the Albert Hall. On their day, they are more than capable of doing well here as they have talent around the stands and a quality MD (another ex services man) to direct operations. Whether Saturday will be their day though remains to be seen.

33 times the band has made the long trip up from Cornwall to London and although they have been out of the prizes on the vast majority of these occasions since 1946, they can boast two fourth places in 1977 and 1982 and a couple of fifths and a sixth. Last year they had a favourable draw but went for it in a big way and came something of a cropper and ended up in 19th place. Anything higher will be a bonus then, and with new signings they have it in them to certainly do that. Midfield at best though.

Desford Colliery:
Conductor: Major Peter Parkes
4BR Ranking: 27
Appearances: 18
Debut: 1976
Best Result: 4 Wins
Last Six Years: 1996 onwards (10th, DNQ, 15th, DNQ, 11th, DNQ)
Last Year: 3rd at Midlands Area and failed to qualify
Overall Record: 4 Wins (1987, 1988, 1989, 1990): 2 Seconds (1985, 1992): 1 Third (1995): 11 Unplaced (1976, 1977, 1979, 1980, 1982, 1984, 1986, 1993, 1996, 1998, 2000)

It is difficult to know what to make of Desford nowadays. Since losing their place at the top table of the British Open, you would have thought they would haved pulled out all the stops to try and get back into the Premiership of banding at the soonest opportunity. Not so. Their immediate ambitions seem to rest with making an impression at the Nationals – something they last did in 1995 when they came 3rd, whilst appearing back at the Open seems to have been put on the back burner. 2002 has therefore seen the band concentrate on their concert engagements rather than their contest engagements, yet they were more than good enough to win the Midlands Regional Championships yet again – their third title in five years as they beat off the challenges of bands such as Travelsphere and Thoresby. No entry to either the Masters or Grand Shield means that the contesting success of 2002 will rest on what they achieve come Saturday. Strange.

For a band that only made it’s debut in 1976, Desford have a brilliant record at the Nationals with the four wins of the late 1980’s and early 1990’s the crowning glory of a band that at the time were setting new standards. They were so close to making it a nap hand in 1992, but by 1993 they amazingly came last – some 34 points behind the winners and since then there has only been the rare 1995 success to celebrate. Even with the great Peter Parkes at the helm, we can’t see them adding to that this year. Midfield only.

Ever Ready:
Conductor: Ray Farr
4BR Ranking: 19
Appearances: 34
Debut: 1963 as Craghead Colliery, 1969 as Ever Ready
Best Result: 4th place 1976
Last Six Years: 1996 onwards (DNQ, 5th, DNQ, 19th, 13th, DNQ)
Last Year: 3rd at North East Area and failed to qualify
Overall Record: No wins: 1 Fourth (1976): 2 Fifths (1982, 1997): 2 Sixths (1973, 1988): 29 Unplaced (1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1972, 1974, 1975, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1999, 2000)

When Ever Ready took the North of England title in March this year it was the 25th time that they had won the Regional title since 1968 – a record of achievement that no other band can match. However, it was a slightly fortuitous victory, helped by having Nicholas Childs at the helm no doubt, but not helped by some uncharacteristic errors that had many in the hall wondering whether they had done enough to get back to the Albert Hall after missing out in 2001. Still, victories are victories and once more the band will make the long trip south to see if they can improve on their record there. 2002 also saw the band give a solid account of themselves at the Masters to come home 13th, whilst at the Open they fell back a little from last year to come 15th. Ray Farr took the band at both those contests, and once more he will try and weave magic – he could find it a difficult task though.

This will be the 35th time they will appear here, but they only have a fine 4th place in 1976 under Eric Cunningham as their best – although they scored a notable 5th place in 1997 under Stephen Roberts playing “Alderney Edge”. Over the years they have had many a famous face to conduct the band here with the likes of Roy Newsome, Geoffrey Whitham, Arthur Kenney, Trevor Walmsley and Howard Snell all trying and failing to gain a top six placing for them. It could very well be the same this time around. Midfield once more we think.

East Yorkshire Motor Services:
Conductor: Gareth Pritchard
4BR Ranking: 43
Appearances: 5
Debut: 1996
Best Result: 8th (1996)
Last Six Years: 1996 onwards (8th, 13th, 10th, 15th, DNQ, 14th)
Last Year: 14th off the number 10 draw
Overall Record: No Wins: 5 Unplaced (1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2001)

2002 has been a fine year so far for the EYMS band. Drawn sixth at the Regionals in Darlington they produced a performance under Gareth Pritchard that many though worthy of taking the North England title back to Hull, but they had to be content with second place and a second consecutive trip back to London. That form was maintained though in fine style in May when they won the Senior Cup in Blackpool on “Le Carnaval Romain” and so next year they will be challenging for a place in the British Open. No Masters place – although that may come and a couple of new signings have strengthened the band further in time for their appearance here. Gareth Pritchard continues to extract some fine music from his charges and so they will be hoping to repeat or better their 8th place of 1996 on “Isaiah 40”.

For a band that has such a short history, EYMS have a fine record of achievement at the Albert Hall, and even though they have yet to gain a top six place, they have performed with solidity and 14th place last year was no exception. That may be as good as it gets this time around for us as well – although we are sure the band will be trying like mad for better things.

Fodens:
Conductor: Bramwell Tovey
4BR Ranking: 1
Appearances: 55
Debut: 1909
Best Result: 12 Wins
Last Six Years: 1996 onwards (DNQ, 3rd, 4th, 1st, 3rd, 2nd)
Last Year: Second place off the number 20 draw
Overall Record: 12 Wins (1910, 1930, 1932, 1933, 1934, 1936, 1937, 1938, 1950, 1953, 1958, 1999): 10 Seconds (1909, 1911, 1921, 1949, 1951, 1952, 1988, 1990, 1991, 2001): 7 Thirds (1912, 1923, 1947, 1954, 1959, 1997, 2000): 4 Fourths (1928, 1957, 1989, 1998): 5 Fifths (1922, 1956, 1978, 1983, 1985): 3 Sixths (1925, 1931, 1961): 14 Unplaced (1913, 1924, 1926, 1927, 1929, 1955, 1962, 1964, 1966, 1972, 1976, 1977, 1980, 1993)

2002 has been one heck of a year so far for the North West Regional Champions. Things started in fine style at Blackpool in March when the band played out of their skins under the new baton of Russell Gray to win the Regional title for the fourth time in the last five years. This was just an aperitif though for what was to come, and under Russell Gray they gave a blistering performance of Philip Wilby’s “Atlantic” to take the All England Master’s crown for the fifth time and for the first time since 1995. The British Open saw the return of Bram Tovey and he directed the band into second place, and once more the band will be headed by the brilliant orchestral conductor now domiciled in Canada. Last year he was somewhat dismissive of the advertising screens used at the contest and threatened not to conduct at the contest unless something was done about them.

A brilliant record at the National for the newly sponsored Fodens over the years, with the last five years giving one win, a second and two third places. They are possibly due to win again (they were damn close last year), although they will have their work cut out. With such brilliant soloists, a bass end to die for and a class MD, this could be it. Expect them to be fighting it out to the bitter end.

Grimethorpe Colliery UK Coal:
Conductor: James Gourlay
4BR Ranking: 7
Appearances: 24
Debut: 1962
Best Result: 2 Wins
Last Six Years: 1996 onwards (2nd, 7th, DNQ, DNQ, 10th, DNQ)
Last Year: 4th at Yorkshire Area and failed to qualify
Overall Record: 2 Wins (1970, 1992): 3 Seconds (1974, 1977, 1996) 3 Thirds (1972, 1978, 1991): 6 Fourths (1962, 1967, 1969, 1980, 1983, 1993): 1 Fifth (1976): 1 Sixth (1964): 8 Unplaced (1963, 1968, 1973, 1981, 1984, 1989, 1997, 2000)

2002 has been something of a curate’s egg in contesting terms for the lads from Grimethorpe. Our favourite entertainers (they were quite excellent at the British Open Concert) seem to have lost the knack of late of winning the big ones, and as they don’t compete at the Masters, all their eggs this year have fallen into just the National basket as a means of hopefully putting some silver ware on the table. James Gourlay is the man charged with bringing them success, and things started so well with a superb performance at Bradfoed that very nearly wrestled the crown off Black Dyke to give them their first Area win since 1996. This put them in the favourites class for the Open, but there they under performed and played in a slightly surreal way to come 14th. They will be looking however for a better return in London – the scene of such memories ten years ago. They have it in them, what with superb players all around the band and an MD who on his day can be simply irresistible.

This will be bands 25th appearance – 40 years after their first here and even though they have just the two wins, what wins they were. First under George Thompson and second under Frank Renton, when they stuck two fingers up at Maggie Thatcher in the process. Some great names have also conducted the band over the years here as well with Elgar Howarth (who came second in 1974, Stanley Boddington, James Scott, Peter Parkes and a chap called Gerard Shwarz all getting them in the frame. It could well be the same again.

Kirkintilloch:
Conductor: Frank Renton
4BR Ranking: 14
Appearances: 7
Debut: 1968
Best Result: 4th in 1997
Last Six Years: 1996 onwards (DNQ, 4th, 12th, 11th, DNQ, DNQ)
Last Year: 5th in Scottish Area and failed to qualify
Overall Record: No Wins: 1 Fourth (1997): 6 Unplaced (1968, 1984, 1985, 1990, 1998, 1999)

2002 once again saw Kirkintilloch set their stall out to become the best band in Scotland, and this time they succeeded as they took the Scottish Regional title and the chance to represent their country in the 2003 European with a fine performance under Frank Renton in Motherwell. It was their first win for 12 years and came on a day when more fancied bands couldn’t quite string together a performance that could match theirs for excitement and musicality. This will mean three majors next year, but this year they made the trip to Birmingham with high hopes and although they could only manage 12th place, they once more impressed many listeners with their musicality and overall sound. Frank Renton continues to lead on stage, but Allan Ramsey should take credit for the hard graft and preparation in getting the band ready for London – a selfless task but one that seems to work well for the band.

Kirkintilloch made their first appearance here in 1968 under the baton of R. Oughton and have since been back another six times with their 4th place in 1997 under Frank Renton the pinnacle of their achievements so far. The great Walter Hargreaves took the band in 1984 whilst Frank Renton has wagged since 1990. The band will be keen for a repeat of 1997, but we think they may have to be content with a possible rerun of either 1998 or 1999.

Leyland:
Conductor: Garry Cutt
4BR Ranking: 9
Appearances: 16
Debut: 1981
Best Result: 3rd (1984)
Last Six Years: 1996 onwards (7th, DNQ, 8th, 10th, 14th, 6th)
Last Year: 6th place off number 8 draw
Overall Record: No Wins: 1 Third (1984): 1 Fourth (1990): 2 Fifths (1993, 1995): 1 Sixth (2001): 11 Unplaced (1981, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1991, 1994, 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000)

2001 was the year in which the renaissance of the Leyland Band began again. A couple of years in the doldrums were quickly forgotten as they started to feature close to the top of the results lists at the major contests. 2002 has seen that renaissance consolidated somewhat with a fine start at the North West Regionals, where they put in a cracker of a show under Garry Cutt to come a close third behind their traditional rivals of Fodens and Williams Fairey. That led them to the Masters where under the baton of James Gourlay (Mr Cutt was away on tour with Grimethorpe) they once more showed that they were a band to be reckoned when they came 7th. The Open saw Garry’s return and once more it was solid (rather than spectacular it must be said) performance and they settled for 11th spot. Hopes are high that they can improve on last year’s sixth place, and with the return of the Kiwi Riki McDonnell to impersonate Falstaff, they will be a band to listen out for.

It is now 21 years since Leyland made their debut here and in the 16 appearances to date, they can only boast just the one third place of 1984 as their best – strangely disappointing considering that they were one heck of a band under Richard Evans at that time. They have done reasonably well since, but the end result has always seen them hovering around the top six rather than landing in the top three. More of the same may be on the cards once more.

Redbridge Brass:
Conductor: Melvin White
4BR Ranking: 50
Appearances: 7
Debut: 1988
Best Result: 13th in 1996
Last Six Years: 1996 onwards (13th, 18th, 20th, DNQ, DNQ, DNQ)
Last Year: 4th at London Area and failed to qualify
Overall Record: No Wins: 7 Unplaced (1988, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1996, 1997, 1998)

The last time Redbridge won the London and Southern Counties title was in 1997, so they were not favourites in 2002 to lift the Regional crown again, especially as they had lagged behind the likes of Aveley and Newham and First City Brass in the past few years. However, MD, Melvin White dragged a super show from them as last band on at Stevenage and they took the title by a comfortable two-point margin. It was Melvin Whites 20th Regional qualification in 20 years and Redbridge were back at the finals for the first time since 1998. Since then they have found it a bit tougher against National opposition and they could only manage 5th place in the Senior Trophy in Blackpool (although that was enough to take them up a section for next year). With their most settled line up of players for many a year and with a triple CD just completed, they will be confident of making an impression at the Albert Hall.

Not a great record of achievement for the band since making their debut in 1988 on “Seascapes”. 13th in 1996 has been their best return, and in both 1997 and 1998 they propped up the field by coming home last. Melvin White is an experienced hand on the tiller though and they will possibly be hoping for a repeat of 1996 at least. They may find that hard though and it could well be a struggle to beat many of the opposition.

Seindorf Beaumaris:
Conductor: Gwyn Evans
4BR Ranking: 29
Appearances: Debut
Debut: Debut
Best Result: None
Last Six Years: 1996 onwards (DNQ, DNQ, DNQ, DNQ, DNQ, DNQ)
Last Year: Winners of 1St Section at Welsh Area
Overall Record: None

2002 has been something of a coming of age for the band from North Wales and it all started at the Welsh Regional Championships in Swansea on Sunday 17th March this year. Playing as last band on in the day, and following BAYV Cory on stage, they gave a fantastic robust and muscular account of “Whitsun Wakes” that very nearly shook the hall to its foundations. They gained the runners up spot for their efforts and beat some pretty good bands into the bargain to complete an odyssey that started over ten years previously when they won their first National title – in the Fourth Section in London. That was the start of an amazing journey – and one we are sure will not just end at the Albert Hall on Saturday either. That win set the band up to give a decent account of themselves at the Grand Shield where they came 12th, and although an appearance at the Open is yet to be achieved, it is certainly on the agenda. Plenty of fine homegrown talent on show and a conductor who has Beaumaris blood coursing through his veins. They have already shown they will not be overawed and they will be there to do more than just make up the numbers.

Their debut at the Nationals at the highest level – but they can already boast a National win in 1991 in the Fourth Section, another in the Third Section in 1992 and a third place in the First Section in 2001. That is some progress, so don’t be surprised if they take more than a few scalps this time as well.

SWT Woodfalls:
Conductor: Frans Violet
4BR Ranking: 46
Appearances: 8
Debut: 1952
Best Result: 15th in 1996
Last Six Years: 1996 onwards (15th, DNQ, 16th, DNQ, DNQ, DNQ)
Last Year: 3rd at West of England Area and failed to qualify
Overall Record: No wins: 8 Unplaced (1952, 1953, 1967, 1968, 1975, 1978, 1996, 1998)

The 2002 victory of SWT Woodfalls at the West of England Regionals was on paper one of the surprise results of the qualifiers. However, they put in a very fine performance at Bristol under the baton of Garry Cutt, that really benefited from his sensible approach to the music and realisation of the strengths and weaknesses of the band under him. It was their first win at the Areas since 1998 and it was made all the sweeter as they beat the pre match favourites Flowers and JAG Mount Charles who both failed to qualify. That really set the band up and they gave a good account of themselves at the Masters in Cambridge under David Hirst when they came home 15th from an early draw. No invite to the Grand Shield weekend meant that it could be some time before we see them challenging for a place at the Open, but they made their intent clear for the Nationals by engaging Frans Violet to direct their assault. Coupled with the talented Belgium maestro are a couple of new signings, and it will be interesting to hear how the band perform under a man who took CWS Glasgow to 3rd place at the British Open when “Masquerade” was last used in 1993.

It is fifty years ago that Woodfalls made their debut at the Albert Hall, when S.L. Clarke led them off the number 11 draw on the “Frogs”. Since then they have been back a further 7 times but have yet to make a real impression with the judges here and can only count a 15th in 1996 and 16th in 1998 as their best on their last two outings. Hopes will be high to improve on that, but we can only see them battling it out with the rest of the midfield this time.

Travelsphere Holidays:
Conductor: Brian Grant
4BR Ranking: 12
Appearances: 43
Debut: 1935
Best Result: 6 wins
Last Six Years: 1996 onwards (14th, DNQ, DNQ, DNQ, 12th, 16th)
Last Year: 16th off the number 3 draw
Overall Record: 6 Wins (1935, 1955, 1957, 1960, 1964, 1966): 2 Seconds (1938, 1972): 6 Thirds (1946, 1956, 1963, 1965, 1968, 1983): 6 Fourths (1947, 1949, 1959, 1961, 1974, 1986): 1 Fifth (1969): 1 Sixth (1995): 21 Unplaced (1936, 1937, 1958, 1962, 1967, 1973, 1976, 1978, 1980, 1981, 1984, 1985, 1987, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1994, 1996, 2000, 2001)

2001 was something of a year to forget for Travelsphere – too many early draws put pay to realistic chances of success, but 2002 has proved a much more fruitful. It started with them gaining the runners up spot behind Desford at the Midlands Regionals in March that meant that they had secured another crack at the Albert Hall for the third consecutive year. Their confidence was immediately boosted by a superb result at the Masters where thy came 4th off the number 7 draw and were placed 3rd, 3rd and 4th by the three independent judges on the day and hopes were high when they reached the Open in September. They didn’t perform too well there though and had to be content with a lowly 17th position, so they will be determined to do well at the Albert Hall. Plenty of class around the stand and a shrewd MD on the rostrum should see them do well though and they will be hoping to improve on their last two outings here when they came 12th and 16th.

Six wins in 43 appearances at the Nationals over the years (under some different, but equally famous names of course), but the last time they featured in the frame was 1995 when they came sixth on “Songs for B.L.” Then they were called Rigid Containers Group and were conducted by John Berryman. They may have to wait a bit longer we feel to get another mention, but they will certainly more than hold their own.

Whitburn:
Conductor: Phillip McCann
4BR Ranking: 10
Appearances: 22
Debut: 1968
Best Result: 3rd (1981, 1989)
Last Six Years: 1996 onwards (17th, 16th, 13th, 9th, DNQ, 8th)
Last Year: 8th place off the number 6 draw
Overall Record: No Wins: 2 Thirds (1981, 1989): 2 Fifths (1990, 1991): 18 Unplaced (1968, 1971, 1972, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1980, 1982, 1986, 1987, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2001)

Whitburn are a band moving in the right direction, as results in recent years have proven. 2001 in particular saw them take over the mantle as the leading band North of the border and 2002 has seen them further consolidate that position at the major contests of the year so far. Second place behind Kirkintilloch at the Scottish Regional Championships was a disappointment, especially as they were hoping for a trip to the Europeans, but it was enough to secure their second consecutive appearance at the Nationals and their 23rd time in total. Their next appearance at a major contest was at the Open where they couldn’t quite repeat their 5th place of 2001 and had to be content with 10th – although that did mean they were the leading Scottish band there. A settled band and a conductor who has been in a rich vein of form of late could well mean they could be pushing for at least a top 10 place.

In 22 appearances the band has featured 4 times in the prize list, with the 3rd places of 1981 and 1989 the closest they have come to winning. On those occasions they were conducted by Geoffrey Whitham and James Scott – two experienced campaigners if ever there was, and you have the feeling Mr McCann is hewn from the same rock. Maybe not quite enough about them to claim a top six place, but should be good enough to possibly push for a place in the top 10.

Williams Fairey:
Conductor: Allan Withington
4BR Ranking: 5
Appearances: 39
Debut: 1945
Best Result: 7 wins
Last Six Years: 1996 onwards (4th, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 8th, 4th)
Last Year: 4th place off the number 2 draw
Overall Record: 7 Wins (1945, 1952, 1954, 1956, 1965, 1986, 1993): 4 Seconds (1946, 1947, 1994, 1997): 5 Thirds (1966, 1978, 1980, 1992, 1998): 4 Fourths (1984, 1987, 1996, 2001): 4 Fifths (1962, 1975, 1988, 1999): 6 Sixths (1953, 1958, 1959, 1982, 1990, 1991): 9 Unplaced (1948, 1955, 1957, 1963, 1972, 1979, 1983, 1995, 2000)

2002 started with an ending for Williams Fairey as Howard Snell made his final contesting appearance in the UK when he directed the band to the runners up spot behind Fodens at the North West Regionals at Blackpool. That was perhaps a disappointment to the neutrals, and there was further disappointment for their legion of supporters when they were pipped by the closest margin by Fodens again at the Masters. That day they gave notice that the band was close to it’s best, and Frank Renton brought a performance of real note from his charges. A third different conductor – this time Allan Withington saw them perform well at the Open, although they never really sounded as if they were going to win it. 6th place off a favourable last band on draw was a bit of a let down for a band that is jam-packed with superb solo players and excellent back ups. Nick Hudson returns on solo trombone to add further class and this could be just the tonic they need if they are to fulfil their undoubted talent and promise and take the National title back to Stockport for the first time since their memorable 1993 “Double” win.

In 39 appearances they have only been out of the prize list on 9 occasions, but their record is one of a series of “good but not quite good enough” of late here. They have all the components to really do well this year and to make Allan Withington the first man to win all four major titles. His name would also join those of Harry Mortimer, Leonard Lamb and Peter Parkes as MD of a Fairey’s National Champion band.

Yorkshire Building Society:
Conductor: Dr. David King
4BR Ranking: 4
Appearances: 15
Debut: 1957 (as Hammonds Sauce)
Best Result: 2nd (1995, 1998)
Last Six Years: 1996 onwards (5th, DNQ, 2nd, 8th, 17th, 3rd)
Last Year: 3rd place off the number 18 draw
Overall Record: No Wins: 2 Seconds (1995, 1998): 2 Thirds (1994, 2001): 1 Fourth (1972): 1 Fifth (1996): 9 Unplaced (1957, 1968, 1969, 1975, 1976, 1979, 1980, 1999, 2000)

A bit of an up and down year so far for YBS and Dr. David King. It started with a down as they under performed somewhat to come home 4th at the Yorkshire Regional Championships - although there were mitigating circumstances due to the need to introduce new talent after the player exodus at the end of 2001. The recovery and upswing was amazing though and the band gave two simply electrifying performances at the European Championships in Brussels to win by a six point margin and take home the title for the fourth consecutive year. They were immense that day. That should have translated into a successful defence of their Masters title, but on the day in Cambridge they were out of sorts and never felt comfortable with the Wilby work used there and came 6th. The Open was a major disappointment though and 7th place was undeserved as they gave a wonderful almost orchestral reading of the set work. That though should spur the band into being ever more determined to win the Nationals for the first time – a title that has amazingly eluded David King. With an abundance of talent around the stands and a couple of new faces to bolster the ranks, they could well do it this year and make history .

The last few years at the Albert Hall have been a bit of a yo – yo ride – 2nd followed by 8th, followed by 5th, then 17th and finally 3rd last year. If the pattern is to be repeated then YBS won’t win, but you can be sure they won’t believe that sort of omen. They are surely due a win here before too long, but this may not quite be the piece to suit their talents and they may have to be satisfied with yet another near miss.

Our Prediction:
Given that its such a hard test piece this year, the cream of the bands should in theory rise to the top and show enough class about themselves to make it something of a private battle for the ultimate prize. Two bands stand out for us though – both conducted by the Childs brothers and somehow we can’t see their three year hegemony being ended quite just yet. Fodens and Williams Fairey are the two bands for us who could push them to the limit and even beat them on the day, whilst YBS and Grimethorpe should have enough class about them to make the frame. Look out for Brighouse though, as they seem to be finding form once more under the Major. After that, it could be a bit of battle to see if any of the others can make it into the frame. Some will have good efforts, but for us, we think it could well be a repeat of the Welsh Millennium celebrations once more.

4BR PREDICTION:

Buy As You View Cory
Black Dyke
Fodens
Williams Fairey
Yorkshire Building Society
Grimethorpe Colliery UK Coal
Dark Horses: Brighouse and Rastrick

Midfield Battlers (no particular order):
Leyland, Whitburn, Travelsphere, Kirkintilloch, Besses, Desford, Aveley and Newham and Ever Ready

Battling for a Result (no particular order):
Seindorf Beaumaris, SWT Woodfalls, Camborne Town, EYMS, Redbridge Brass

• return to the Nationals 2002 page

© 4BarsRest

back to top