Abertillery & District Band is celebrating a first contesting win in nearly 30 years after they gained a well deserved victory under the direction of Josh Ruck in the joint Third/Fourth Section at the recent Welsh League contest in Burry Port.

Last win

The band's last win came back in 1986 at a Third Section Welsh Championship event in Neath, so little wonder there were celebrations long into the night after they took the honours thanks to a fine rendition of 'Visions' by Dan Price.

Renaissance

Abertillery is enjoying a real renaissance of late — picking up no less than six runner-up prizes in their last ten contest appearances, although the band was disappointed that their acclaimed performance in Cheltenham at the Fourth Section National Finals off the number 1 draw didn't find as much favour in the tent as it did in the hall (above).

However, there was no problem this time round as Welsh National Opera trumpet player, Dean Wright described their rendition as, 'a great performance' in his written adjudication remarks.

Trophies

In addition, MD, Josh Ruck, was awarded a trophy as the winning conductor, whilst flugel horn player, David Rees, claimed the 'Best Instrumentalist' prize.

David told 4BR: "We only found out about the 29 year period since the last victory in the week leading up to this contest.

While the band did not compete for a time after 1986, we were all determined to end this unwanted record — so we were understandably delighted when the result was announced!"

He added: "The victory was a fitting reward for the players and Josh for all the work he has done with us over the last year."

While the band did not compete for a time after 1986, we were all determined to end this unwanted record — so we were understandably delighted when the result was announced!Abertillery & District Band

Great

Josh himself added: "It was great to lead the band to this victory. We can now look forward to promotion — although I hope we don't have to wait another 29 years for the next win!"

The band now looks forward to the Welsh League contest in Merthyr Tydfil before working hard in preparation to their return to the Third Section in 2016.