The highly popular Weston Super Mare contest is set to for an organisational revamp following the news that after 10 successful years as contest controller, Colin Rossiter is talking a well earned retirement.

SWBBA

From 2012 the event will be overseen and promoted by the South West Brass Band Association (SWBBA). Contest administration will be handled by John Woods, with contest control in the hands of experienced hands of Brian Elliott, Secretary of the Association.

The existing format will remain for the 44th running of the contest on 20th May, with Parkwood Community Leisure and North Somerset Council supporting the event in the Winter Gardens.

Important event

Parkwood Leisure Manager, Peter Undery, told 4BR: "This is an important event for us, and the resort, enabling us to showcase our auditorium, restaurant and bar facilities to band members and their supporters and families."

With Weston Brass members continuing to supply stewarding on the day, bands are assured of a warm welcome to the contest which attracts entries from across the South West, Wales, Midlands and South East.

I’m delighted to be taking this contest forward in its 44th year. With good communication links I’m determined to see it continue to attract bands from a wide areaJohn Woods

Few changes

Brian and John are keen to stress that very few changes to the format will be evident to bands.

John commented: “I’m delighted to be taking this contest forward in its 44th year. With good communication links I’m determined to see it continue to attract bands from a wide area."

This has also provided me with an opportunity to support the SWBBA management team, and I’m confident that we can maintain and enhance this popular event in the banding calendar.”

He added: “The late Sidney Way was a good friend and mentor and we know he would have approved of this new partnership with SWBBA. I’d also like to acknowledge the hard and excellent work Colin Rossiter has done in managing this event.”

Further details

Further details, including adjudicators, will be released in December.

The Contest schedule and entry form will be available from John Woods at johnwwoods@tiscali.co.uk or telephone 01934 750700.

Bands who have competed at Weston in the past, as well as member bands of SWBBA, can expect to hear from John by the year end.

Full details of the Contest will also be posted and available to download at www.southwestbrassbandassociation.co.uk