The Clifton & Lightcliffe Band have been enjoying that Harrogate feeling after qualifying for the Lower Section National Finals in Harrogate at Bradford on the weekend.

Delighted

Secretary Jane Clay told 4BR: "All our band members are delighted that we have qualified once again for the finals. This is the third time in the five years that MD John Clay has guided us there, and we would also like to congratulate Chapeltown who go there as champions."

Service

On Sunday John was also presented with a long service award after a lifetime of banding service that has seen him for the past 57 years be part of Clifton, Black Dyke and the National Youth Band from principal cornet t conductor.

This is the third time in the five years that MD John Clay has guided us there, and we would also like to congratulate Chapeltown who go there as championsJane Clay

Future

The weekend also saw John's plans for the future to to the stage when the 'B' Band competed in the 4th Section and were given a warm ovation by the audience. John was delighted and very proud of their performance, telling 4BR: "This was an excellent experience for our young band and will be something they will all remember for a long time."

USA bound

The senior band will now be even busier than ever fund raising, for as well as the finals they are also set to tour California in August where we will be performing with the California State Band and the Pomona Wind Band, along with a concert in Disneyland.