The 2017 Welsh contest season will kick off with a tasty cross border seafront battle next month, when 11 bands look to claim the Welsh Open Entertainment title in Porthcawl.

The contest first took place in 1998 and has since become a highly enjoyable curtain raiser thanks to its excellent organisation, generous prize fund and appreciative audience.

Grand Pavilion

As usual, the contest takes place at the Grand Pavilion on Saturday February 18th, starting at midday, with the bands having to try and catch the fancy of adjudicator Melvin White if they are to get their hands on the magnificent CISWO Challenge Trophy.

The defending champion is Filton Concert (above, conducted by Glenn Van Looy), who will be challenged once more by the likes of former winners Tongwynlais Temperance and BTM as well as joint Welsh League champions Llwydcoed and Tylorstown and a strong field of domestic rivals.

There is also a welcome debut for Yeovil Town, who make their way across the new Severn Bridge for the first time.

The contest first took place in 1998 and has since become a highly enjoyable curtain raiser thanks to its excellent organisation, generous prize fund and appreciative audience4BR

Competing bands

Competing bands: BTM, City of Cardiff (Melingriffith), Ebbw Valley, Filton Concert, Goodwick Brass, Lewis Merthyr, Llwydcoed, Markham & District, Tongwynlais Temperance, Tylorstown and Yeovil Town.

Tickets: Grand Pavilion Box Office 01656 815995