Pontardulais Town Band are still celebrating a week after their historic victory at the recent South East Wales Association Contest held in Blaenavon.

The band won the Championship Section with their performance of Philip Sparke’s 'Tallis Variations', and with it, came joint second in the final placing for the Welsh League competition.

Elated

Elated MD Paul Jenkins told 4BR: "It really was an historic day and the first victory for the band in the Championship Section in over 50 years.

"I was so proud of all the players as they came off stage, but would also like to say a big thank you to our supporters, who provided a great boost on the day."

I was so proud of all the players as they came off stage, but would also like to say a big thank you to our supporters, who provided a great boost on the dayMD, Paul Jenkins

Dream come true

He added: "In addition, to have come joint second overall in this years Champion Band of Wales competition is simply a dream come true! There have been many other successes of course but to return from Blaenavon with the Dewar Challenge Cup emblazoned with the names of Wales` Best Bands was an honour indeed."

New players

The band’s success was aided by the inclusion of new players, Sadie Jacklin and James McLeod, both students at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama. Sadie joined the band on solo cornet, and James joined on principal euphonium. The band also took time to thank Mathew Williams on loan from Tredegar for the contest.

Bodes well

The victory bodes well for a busy 2010 contesting season, where the band will be looking to return to the National Finals for the first time since 1999.

The contest also saw principal trombonist Gareth Halfpenny awarded the 'Best Trombone' prize, whilst second trombonist Robert Buist enjoyed a double celebration after obtaining a distinction in his Grade 6 examination.