An announcement has been made that the popular Land O' Burns — Brass in Concert contest has been cancelled.

Staged annually since 1995 at Troon Concert Hall and hosted by the Dalmellington Band, it is the latest blow to domestic Scottish contesting following the cancellation of the West Lothian Festival of Brass Challenge contest.

Strong fields

Over the years the contest attracted a strong field of competitors with its generous prize fund, innovative approach and slick organisation, although it is understood that the decision follows the withdrawal of local council financial backing.

The first winner was Unison Kinneil Band, whilst in recent years it has seen engrossing battles between eight time winner Whitburn and 2016 champion Co-operative Funeralcare.

We hope to research other funding possibilities with a view to re-installing the contest in 2018Dalmellington Band

2018 return

Speaking on behalf of Dalmellington Band, Archie Hutchison commented: "South Ayrshire Council, the major sponsors of the event for many years, is suffering the same reduction in funding as every other Council in the country, and simply hasn't got the means to support us this year.

Attempts to find funding from an alternative source have failed to materialise, and we have, as a result, decided to cancel.

We hope to research other funding possibilities with a view to re-installing the contest in 2018."