The list of judges who will decide upon the fates of the bands at the 90th Spring Festival in Blackpool in May have been released by the organisers.

Pairings

Although it hasn't been confirmed what the pairings are and in what sections they will judge, bands will already by trying to guess the appropriate permutations.

In a bold move the organisers have opted for the inclusion of Black Dyke's principal conret player Richard Marshall and Cory's euphonium star David Childs in their line up, alongside four highly experienced judges.

Although it hasn't been confirmed what the pairings are and in what sections they will judge, bands will already by trying to guess the appropriate permutations4BR

Judges

The line up includes, Dr Robert Childs, David Childs, Richard Marshall, David Read, William Relton and Stephen Roberts.

This year’s Festival will be held at The Winter Gardens, Blackpool on Saturday 15th May. The set works will see Edward Gregson’s ‘Rococo Variations' in the Grand Shield, Philip Sparke’s ‘Year of the Dragon’ in the Senior Cup and ‘Le Roi d’Y's for the Senior Trophy.

4BR has been informed that despite the recent sale of the Winter Gardens venue to Blackpool Council a date for the 2011 contest has already been agreed.

Working hard

A spokesperson told 4BR: "The British Open are working on new sponsorship arrangements but wish to thank the competing bands for their continued support which has enabled the contests to proceed as before. The Open has also taken over the Trade Stands from Leisure Parcs, and demand from the traders is also strong with a greater number attending than last year."

Further information can be obtained from the British Open Website www.thebritishopen.net

Also contact: Contest Controller Frank Hodges on 01942 703217.