Organisers of the highly popular Ripon Cathedral Entertainment Contest have announced that it will be filling the pews of the great 16th century building once again this year, as twelve bands battle to impress adjudicator Richard Evans on Saturday June 1st.
Draw
The draw of playing amid the beautiful surroundings of the Cathedral which was built in 1547, and is regarded as one of the finest examples of mixed Gothic and Romanesque architecture in the UK, has meant the organisers have had to create a waiting list as long as the number of entrants who will be playing for a top prize of £250 and the chance to travel home with the fine Championship Rosebowl Trophy.
Pleased
Contest Secretary Paulette Morton told 4BR: "We would love to be able to accommodate more bands, as it is such a wonderful venue to perform at.
We were very pleased to be able to say that the response to this year's contest was astounding and places filled within a week, with even some of our regular participants being pipped to the post!
Many thanks to everyone who submitted an entry and hope that those who missed out will try again next year."
We would love to be able to accommodate more bands, as it is such a wonderful venue to perform atContest Secretary Paulette Morton
Prizes
Bands will perform a 20 minute entertainment programme with prizes on offer for the podium finishers (£250, £150, £75) plus trophies, best an award of £75 for the highest placed Fourth Section band, soloist, march, hymn and entertainment.
Competing bands:
Barnetby Silver, Burneside Brass, Denton Brass, Dunston Silver, Durham Constabulary, Garforth Jubilee, Gawthorpe Brass, Marske Brass, North Skelton, Shepherd Group, Skipton and York RI Golden Rail.
This year the day will be rounded off with a concert by Ripon City Band.
Concert finale
Entry is £5 for the duration of the contest. Ticket price for and availability for the evening concert is still to be advised but will be posted on the band's website when confirmed @ www.riponcityband.co.uk
Refreshments are available throughout the day both in the Cathedral and at Ripon City’s own bandroom which is a stone’s throw from the building.