The 30th annual Pogson Bray Trust Entertainment Contest took place recently at Berties Banqueting Hall in Elland, where 10 bands performed a 20-minute entertainment programme to try and impress adjudicator David Hirst and a supportive audience.

Successful defence

In the end it was Slaithwaite who successfully defended their title with a set that had 'quality and style' under the direction of Robert Westacott to take home the £400 first prize. Runner-up was Horbury Victoria with Elland Silver Youth in third. Section awards went to Clifton & Lightcliffe B, Huddersfield & Ripponden and Thurlstone.

Slaithwaite opened with 'Horizons' by Paul Lovatt-Cooper before flugel soloist Sarah Thistlethwaite gave a fine rendition of 'The Way We Were'.

The up-tempo march 'They're Off!' arranged by the MD was a neat contrast to follow, before they rounded things off with movements from Peter Graham's 'Windows of the World', featuring the 'Best Soloist' contribution of tenor horn player Neil Hardy.

Great win

"It's another great win,"Band Manager, Andrew Booth told 4BR. "Rob has really rejuvenated the band and we are moving in the right direction every time we take to the stage.

This was a great team effort and gives us a huge boost as we look forward to taking part in the Brass Factor event in Wetherby and our promotion to the Second Section in 2017."

Rob has really rejuvenated the band and we are moving in the right direction every time we take to the stageBand Manager, Andrew Booth

Result:

Adjudicator: David Hirst

1. Slaithwaite (Robert Westacott)
2. Horbury Victoria (Duncan Beckley)
3. Elland Silver Youth (Samantha Harrison)

(Full placings to follow)

Best March: Elland Silver Youth
Best Soloist: Neil Hardy (Horn) Slaithwaite

Section Prizes:

Best Third Section Band: Clifton & Lightcliffe B (John Clay)
Best Fourth Section Band: Huddersfield & Ripponden (Adam Bell)
Best Youth/Unregistered Band: Thurlstone (John Hopkinson)