The film crew which followed the Fairey Band around the Saddleworth & Oldham District Whit Friday circuit has spoken to 4BR about what they called, 'a hugely enjoyable experience'.

The BBC 'Inside Out' programme was with the North West Area champion throughout the day and night, as well as having camera crews dotted around the various Saddleworth contests.

Hugely enjoyable

And as producer, Dominic Callaghan revealed, they had a truly brilliant time: "It really was a hugely enjoyable experience — and great fun,"he said.

"I wasn't totally sure what to expect, but as soon as we got on the coach it was both hectic and focused — from one stop to the next. What seems now like the blink of an eye was in fact a long day to remember!'

Impressed

Dominic also told 4BR how impressed he was with the way the band approached each contest.

"At Scouthead it was perishing; but Garry Cutt and the players were the consummate professionals: They really are a talented bunch.

The way they approached everything was an example of amateur music-making at its very best. It was as good as any top class professional I have worked with."

Warm welcome

Dominic added that his team also enjoyed a warm welcome at every venue — and took the opportunity to interview Saddleworth & Oldham co-ordinator, Bob Rodgers as well as players and supporters.

"Great people ran great events,"he said. "Their dedication and love for what they did shone out too."

Unexpected finale

Following the late night finish Dominic met up with Garry on the Saturday morning as he was checking the internet for results in the band's bid for honours. And as he revealed, there was of course something of an unexpected twist for his final round-up.

He added: "Clearly there was a sting in the tale so to speak as the weekend went on."

It's an amazing experience. Every single band was tremendous — and it really does live up to its reputation: It's great fun — but my word; It's certainly a very serious competitive business too!Dominic Callaghan

Enjoyed

Garry Cutt also told 4BR that the band had enjoyed having Dominic and the cameras around: "It was a Whit Friday with a difference, and we hope to work with the team again in the future."

Meanwhile, Dominic also revealed that he is now a huge Whit Friday fan.

"It's an amazing experience. Every single band was tremendous — and it really does live up to its reputation: It's great fun — but my word; It's certainly a very serious competitive business too!"

Screened

Dominic will soon start editing footage for the feature which is due to be screened in the autumn.

He concluded: "My congratulations go to Garry and his band and I'm looking forward to starting the editing process.

You'll have to wait till later in the year to see how our story is told, but with the way things developed, you could say we have a bit of a 'Fairey-tale' to tell."