There was plenty of fine playing on show at the OMBBA (Oldham Metropolitan Brass Band Association) Slow Melody contest held at Austerlands Cricket Club on the weekend.

Excellent standard

Adjudicator Brian Harper commented on the excellent standard of playing he heard, whilst a new trophy was presented thus year to the best euphonium player in the Primary Section.

The award was made in memory of Colin Thewlis, who was Chairman of the Association in recognition of the outstanding contribution and support he gave brass bands in the Oldham area.

Results:

Primary Section: (Under 12)
1. Eleanor Bird (Lees Band)
2. Amy Naylor (Dobcross Youth)
3. Ewan McDonald (Boarshurst Youth)
4. Faith Schofield (Boarshurst Youth)

Best Euphonium (Colin Thewlis Memorial Award): Charlie Grundy (Boarshurst Youth)
Best Cornet: Eleanor Bird (Lees Band)
Best Horn: Niamh O'Donnell (Boarshurst Youth)
Youngest Player (Philip Harrison Memorial Award): Elva Mills (Boarshurst Youth)

Junior Section: (Under 16)
1. Emily Collins (Oldham Band Lees)
2. Ella Bruce (Lees Band)
3. Michael Ballantyne (Lees Band)
4. Ryan Ashley (Boarshurst Youth)

Best Euphonium/Baritone/Trombone: Emily Collins (Oldham Band Lees)
Best Cornet/Flugel: Michael Ballantyne (Lees Band)
Best Tenor Horn: Ella Bruce (Lees Band)

Open Section:
1. John Collins (Oldham Band Lees)
2. Oliver Griffin (Lees Band)
3. Michael Ballantyne (Lees Band)
4. Robin Ballantyne (Oldham Band Lees)

Best Euphonium: John Collins (Oldham Band Lees)
Best Cornet: Robin Ballantyne (Oldham Band Lees)
Best Bass: Stuart Bailey (Lees Band)