The young players of Verwood Concert Brass did themselves proud at the recent Wessex Brass Band Association Youth & Training Band Contest in Downton, Wiltshire.

The Youth Band entered the Youth Ensemble section (players under the age of 19), and came away with some fantastic awards presented by adjudicator, Captain Sam Hairsine of the Royal Marines Band Service.

Best Youth Band

Under the baton of Mike Dunnings, the 21 youngsters won the cup for 'Best Youth Band' as well as for the 'Best Overall Band' across both the Youth and Training Band sections. They also won the 'Best Hymn Tune' award which competitors included as part of their programmes.

Meanwhile, the Verwood Youth Ensemble, which consisted of nine players conducted by Lloyd Bartlett, came runner-up in their section, with percussionist Jack Musslewhite winning a bronze certificate for his outstanding playing, and 6 year old Oliver Bartlett taking the honour as 'Youngest Player'.

Everyone involved with Verwood Concert Brass were particularly proud of what our younger players achieved and the awards they wonChairperson, Helen Dunnings

Great day

Verwood Concert Brass Chairperson, Helen Dunnings told 4BR: "It was a great day seeing and hearing all of the young players perform some wonderful music on the contest stage.

Everyone involved with Verwood Concert Brass were particularly proud of what our younger players achieved and the awards they won, and it is so pleasing that as an organisation we can do our bit to nurture another generation of brass band players."