The Usk Band will be rounding off a memorable year with their annual concert later this month as they look back on a 2013 that has seen the band make a welcome return to the contesting scene in Wales.

25 year gap

The band ended a 25 year contesting absence by competing in the Welsh League series, and after obtaining three podium placed finishes at Ebbw Vale, Burry Port and Blaenavon ended the year winning the Nigel Jones Memorial Trophy as overall runner-up in the Fourth Section.

In addition, the band also came runner-up at the Gloucestershire BBA Contest in Ross-on-Wye in November, with their talented principal cornet player Katy Beckett, taking her first ‘Best Instrumentalist’ award in the process.

It’s been an unbelievable return to competition for the band and I couldn’t have hoped for anything betterMD, Jeff Jones

Unbelievable return

MD Jeff Jones told 4BR: "It’s been an unbelievable return to competition for the band and I couldn’t have hoped for anything better. Every player and supporter has made a fantastic effort and the achievements are well-deserved.

We are very proud to represent our local community in such a way."

The band will now be looking forward to 2014 where they will also be making a long awaited return to the Welsh Area Championships.