With a first prize in the 2nd Section of the SEWBBA contest held in Blaenavon on Saturday, the Lewis Merthyr Band became joint Welsh League title holders for 2009.

Steady progress

The contest was the last leg of the Welsh League competition of the year and the second time the band has claimed victory in the series.

Press Officer David Arnold told 4BR: "This shows the steady progress made under the guidance of MD, Gareth Pritchard over the last two years, and heralds a return to the band's former glory days of the 1980s."

This shows the steady progress made under the guidance of MD, Gareth Pritchard over the last two years, and heralds a return to the band's former glory days of the 1980sLewis Merthyr Band

Proud

Gareth, commenting on the band's success, said that he was proud of the good progress and success achieved despite the vagaries of inconsistent adjudication experienced during the year. He urged the band to keep its feet firmly on the ground.

Rehearsal

David Arnold added: "This last victory was achieved despite only having 10 days rehearsal time available due to other engagements and the absence of the conductor on a very well earned family holiday!"