Darwen Brass followed up their win at the recent Fleetwood contest by taking the honours in the Fourth Section of the Wilkinson's Northern Open Contest at St Helens.

First prize

Conducted by Steve Hartley, Darwen's performance of 'Music for a Festival' saw them take first prize courtesy of adjudicator Paul Andrews.

As well as the winners trophy, the band also picked up trophies for the winning conductor and secretary, together with a cheque for £400.

The win rounds off a highly successful year for Darwen Brass, having claimed 13 trophies at various contests — an amazing return for the band that was formed just three yers ago.

The win rounds off a highly successful year for Darwen Brass, having claimed 13 trophies at various contests — an amazing return for the band that was formed just three yers ago4BR

Hard work

MD, Steve Hartley told 4BR: "This result rounds off a tremendous year for the band, and is due to a great deal of hard work and commitment. The players are so dedicated to the further improvement of Darwen Brass, and are already looking ahead to the next series of contests. I'm enjoying myself immensely conducting the band and I look forward to next year with great anticipation."