The Grand Shield has once again lived up to its unique reputation for being the one contest in the banding world where the celebrations for coming second are every bit as good as those for the winners (see above).

That was certainly the case with Jaguar Land Rover Band on Saturday night after they secured their place back at the British Open for the first time since the year 2000.

Sore headed delight

Band Manager, Simon Archer told 4BR: "You can imagine our delight — even though it was the second time we have been runner-up at the contest. The band has worked extremely hard to return to the British Open.

It's been a real team effort, so the credit must go to everyone for all the efforts and commitment shown. I'm one proud Band Manager — and one like everyone else who had a sore head on Sunday morning!"

Worldwide profile

It's already been a successful year for the midlanders who enjoy a close and proactive association with their sponsors. Simon added: "Jaguar Land Rover has a worldwide profile and we are proud to be part of that."

That was echoed by Les Ratcliffe, Head of Community Relations at Jaguar Land Rover, and a patron of the band, who added: "We are extremely pleased that the band has qualified for the British Open.

This is a tremendous achievement for all the members and the community and charity support they do on our behalf. We wish them all the very best at the Symphony Hall."

Attention

The band will now focus their attention on rehearsals for their appearance at the Whit Friday march contests, as well as the prestigious English Music Festival later this month at Dorchester Abbey, where they will recall many of the works that inspired 'Of Distant Memories'.

This is a tremendous achievement for all the members and the community and charity support they do on our behalf. We wish them all the very best at the Symphony HallLes Ratcliffe, Head of Community Relations at Jaguar Land Rover

Surprise

Meanwhile, MD Dave Lea will also enjoy a personal celebration after it was announced that he will be the 2016 recipient of the All England Masters Dedicated Service Award.

"That came as a huge surprise,"he told 4BR. "It's rounded off a memorable few days to say the least, and now we have the honour of performing at the 10th anniversary of the English Music Festival playing some of the works that inspired Edward Gregson's fantastic test-piece."