Westoe Brass, in partnership with South Tyneside NHS Foundation Trust, completed a winning sequence at the recent Durham County Brass Band Association (DCBBA) Annual Grading Contest.

Victory trio

After victories in Section C in 2006 and Section B in 2007, they returned to win Section A last Sunday at the Lubetkin Theatre in Peterlee.

After missing the contest last year, due to a clash with their annual concert, their victory came courtesy of 'Ballet for Band' by Joseph Horovitz.

I'm sure we can build on this and go into next year’s Northern Area contest with a lot of confidenceMD, Jason Smith

End result

MD, Jason Smith told 4BR: "I was delighted with both the performance and the end result. The piece was a challenge but I'm proud with the way the band performed. I'm sure we can build on this and go into next year’s Northern Area contest with a lot of confidence."

In addition to the winner’s trophy, the band also picked prizes for for 'Best Soprano', which was won by Steve Symonds, as well as for the winning conductor.