Rainford, conducted by Neil Samuel made it a Marsden clean sweep on the weekend. Their performances of the march ‘Knight Templar’ and the hymn tune, gave them victory in both disciplines of the contest and saw them pick up £350 in prize money. The band also won the ‘Best Deportment’ prize.

Second place and £175 went to Meltham & Meltham Mills, who also won the ‘Best Bass Section’ award, with United Co-operative Milnrow (£125) in third.

Nine bands took part in the contest based at the Marsden bandroom, with section awards of £100 going to Uppermill, Huddersfield & Ripponden and Blackley.

The ‘Best Instrumentalist’ Award went to the talented Sarah Hudson, the young principal cornet of Uppermill.

Result:

1. Rainford
2. Meltham & Meltham Mills
3. Co-operative Milnrow

Best Hymn Tune: Rainford

Best Second Section Band: Uppermill
Best Third Section Band: Huddersfield & Ripponden
Best Fourth Section Band: Blackley

Best Basses: Meltham & Meltham Mills
Best Deportment: Rainford