The national flag of The Netherlands will fly alongside the Cornish flag of St Piran to open the 93rd West of England Bandsmen's Festival on Saturday 17th June.

The Festival, situated since 1912 in the heart of the Cornish china clay country at Molinnis Park, will also see the traditional march of the competitors through the village of Bugle to the contest field.

Dutch visitors

As well as bands from Cornwall and Devon, Hampshire, Dorset and London, the contest welcomes Brassband Excelsior Ferwert from the Netherlands, who are celebrating their 120th anniversary this year.

They previously visited Bugle in 2004, and this year will also be performing at the Harbour in Porthleven on Sunday 18th June (2.00pm), followed by a concert at The Princess Pavilion in Falmouth (7.00pm).

Three Cornish bands have entered the Championship Section, where as friendly rivals they will compete for The Royal Trophy, presented to the Festival in 1913, by the then Prince of Wales, Duke of Cornwall. There will be seven different sections this year including Youth and Training.

Adjudicators

The adjudicator is David Marshall, ARMC, LTCL, BBCM, who originally hails from Bodmin. Enlisting in the Army Music Service at the age of 16, he served for 40 years, retiring with the rank of Major as Director of Music of the Coldstream Guards. In addition, Gareth Roberts MBE, will judgE the Deportment Prizes.

With trade stands and the famous tea tent, a full day of entertainment, socialising and enjoyment is guaranteed.

As well as bands from Cornwall and Devon, Hampshire, Dorset and London, the contest welcomes Brassband Excelsior Ferwert from the Netherlands, who are celebrating their 120th anniversary this year4BR

Kick off

The march to the field at Molinnis Park commences at 10.00am, with the contest commencing at 11.00am.