*
banner

Foden's overwhlemed by congratulations

The historic Double has brought congratulations from all over the banding world for Foden's — and a huge boost in profile.

Fodens in action
 

The Foden’s Band has been inundated with literally hundreds of letters, e-mails, text messages and good old fashioned congratulation cards from all over the banding world following their historic ‘Double’ triumph at the Royal Albert Hall on Saturday.

Huge boost

The band has since enjoyed a huge boost to their public profile too, with an appearance on their prime time regional news programme in the North West as well as requests for radio interviews and newspaper features.

Principal cornet Mark Wilkinson told 4BR: "Everyone associated with Foden’s would like to thank the hundreds of fellow players, bands and supporters from all around the world who have contacted us with their congratulations following our victory on the weekend.

It is very much appreciated and shows just what support we have all around the world.”

Hard to describe

He added: "We have been overwhelmed by messages and inundated with calls from radio, television and newspapers. It’s hard to describe how the band members feel at present, but we are all extremely proud that we have been able to add something to the truly unique history of the Foden’s Band."

It’s hard to describe how the band members feel at present, but we are all extremely proud that we have been able to add something to the truly unique history of the Foden’s BandMark Wilkinson

Thanks

He concluded: "We would like to thank Mike Fowles for his amazing preparation work for both the British Open and the National Finals as well of course to Allan Withington for his inspirational leadership."

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


RNCM

Research recognition for RNCM

January 8 • The Royal Northern College of Music adds to its established recognition as a leading centre for the advanced study of music performance and composition.


ODBBA

ODBBA confident of capacity turn-out

January 8 • You will need to be quick to make sure you get your entry in for the Oxford & District Brass Band Association Winter Contest.


Geneva Clans

Geneva boost to cross border battle

January 8 • Geneva Instruments has boosted the prize funds for the forthcoming 'Clans vs Counties Contest' in June.


Elland

Elland to lead youth procession to the Minster

January 8 • Eight youth and training bands will provide the musical entertainment at Halifax Minster next month.


Newstead Brass - Brett Baker

Saturday 17 January • St Wilfrid's Church, . Kirkby-in-Ashfield NG17 8LA


The Hepworth Band - New Year Concert

Sunday 25 January • Christ Church, New Mill, Holmfirth HD9 7ER


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Friday 6 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Saturday 7 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: London & Southern Counties Regional Championships

Saturday 21 March • Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ


Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band

January 8 • Following our promotion to the 2nd section we are looking for a percussionist to do a bit of bing bonging on the timps for the regionals in March. We are a lovely band - everyone says so - so please get in touch. Rehearsals Weds from 1930 in Putney.


Mid Rhondda Band

January 6 • Mid Rhondda Band are currently looking for a trombone player and percussionists to join the team. We are a friendly, welcoming 3rd section band working towards competing in the Welsh Area in March. We also have a variety of events booked for 2026.


The Marple Band

January 6 • Bb Bass and Tuned Percussionist vacancies to join our fabulous band. We are a friendly, ambitious 2nd Section band, starting an exciting new year.


Gary Davies


Conductor, Band Trainer, Adjudicator


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd