Zone One Brass has confirmed the reason behind the band pulling out of the forthcoming English National Championships in Preston next month.

BFBB letter

In a letter to the BFBB last week, band manager Mark Probert wrote: "The band have recently enjoyed its busiest contesting period in our short history. However, it has become clear that we are unable to fund what would be our fourth contest of the year.

On behalf of the band I like to thank you for inviting us to perform at this contest and look forward to being able to honour a future invitation"

...it has become clear that we are unable to fund what would be our fourth contest of the yearZone One Brass

Difficult decision

Mark added to 4BR: "Zone One Brass formed in 2002 with the hope to share the stage with the best brass bands at sometime, so the decision to deny ourselves that opportunity now was a difficult one.

"'Eden' is a fantastic piece and an excellent choice and we wish all the bands the very best in Preston."