The official reasons behind the decision to disqualify Black Dyke Band from the Delph Whit Friday Contest have been released by the contest organisers.

Statement:

The statement reads as follows:

"In the decision to disqualify Black Dyke at the Quickstep Contest, Rule No.2 was considered in the light of two formal complaints, which arrived on the Saturday, after the contest had finished.

Black Dyke readily admits to not being present when they were first called and Prof Nicholas Childs stated to the Booking in Steward that the band would not play if it was a problem.

There was an initial objection to their late arrival by a competing band, which was rescinded before either of them was due to march down. Therefore at that moment there was no problem.

The remaining bands were in agreement that Black Dyke could play on the understanding that they fully understood it was through goodwill. Hands were shaken and the situation thought to have been addressed.

Following the two complaints during Saturday, it has been necessary to uphold Rule 2, and Delph Quickstep Contest Committee will review their booking in procedures to ensure such an incident does not occur in the future.

Our apologies go to all bands in the competition, including Black Dyke, who in hindsight, should not have been allowed to play.

It is hoped that this incident will now be closed and will not mar the future of the Delph Quickstep Contest."

Rev'd John Rosedale
Mary Rodgers
31.05.15