A brand new March & Hymn Tune contest is to be held in the village of Crooke near Wigan on Sunday 2nd October.

It's a musical initiative hosted by the picturesque Crooke Hall Inn pub (WN6 8LR) — a multi-functional establishment that won the 'Pub of the Year' and also 'Community Pub of the Year' in 2014 and 2015, and which overlooks the Leeds-Liverpool canal.

Picturesque location

Spearheading the contest is assistant pub manager and MD of BMP Europe Ltd Goodshaw Band Joshua Hughes, who told 4BR: "Crooke village is a lovely, picturesque location and the pub offers wonderful food and refreshments.

We will be offering a 10% discount off all food and drink throughout the day to all band members participating in the contest. Not only that, our own Brewery will be introducing a brand new real ale called 'Brassed Off'."

Relaxed atmosphere and rules

It is hoped that the relaxed atmosphere and rules, great surroundings, ample parking and generous prize fund and awards will attract bands from far and wide to perform.

Competitors can play as an ensemble or as a massed band — and perform any music they like. The adjudicator will be James Holt.

This is a brand new, local contest which is focussed on bringing bands together for a day of music making, socialising with good food and drink, as well as providing entertainment for the local communityJoshua Hughes

Socialising

Joshua added: "This is a brand new, local contest which is focussed on bringing bands together for a day of music making, socialising with good food and drink, as well as providing entertainment for the local community.

Contact:

The entry fee will be £50.00 and needs to be paid (with application form) by the closing date for entries which will be Monday 5th September.

Contact: crookehallinn@hotmail.com