Marsden Silver is certainly showing that relegation to the First Section can be the perfect way to reinvigorate a band — especially one with 100 years of proud competitive history to call on.
Although the loss of their Championship Section status in Yorkshire in 2016 came as a blow at the time, it also provided them with the opportunity to regroup — with startling results.
Paid dividends
A new found realism, a link to a vastly experienced MD and players with an immense sense of pride and connection with the band has paid dividends — with the latest instalment another £750 banked into their coffers after receiving the cheque for winning the Redrow House Builders sponsored 'Saddleworth Local Champions' title at the recent Whit Friday contests (above).
Add to that the healthy winnings at the various individual Whit Friday contests, over £700 won at the Morley March & Hymn Tune contest and more money from a podium finish at Hebden Bridge and you can see why they are smiling.
And that is not forgetting their win at the Yorkshire Area contest in Huddersfield and Brass at the Guild Hall earlier in the year.
They are now one of the short-priced favourites to add the First Section National title to their CV when they head to Cheltenham in September.
Handy
On receiving the latest payment for their Whit Fruday success, MD Alan Widdop stated: "It means everything to have won this. The money will come in extremely handy and will go towards covering our expenses for the next competition."
They are now one of the short-priced favourites to add the First Section National title to their CV when they head to Cheltenham in September4BR
Worthy winner
Lorraine Moores, area sales manager for Redrow Homes (Lancashire) added: "We were delighted to sponsor a category at the Whit Friday event as it's such a lovely, traditional competition and brings together musical talent from all over the country and further afield.
Redrow's contribution provided the area prize pot for the best local band based within an eight-mile radius of Uppermill Village. Marsden Silver was a worthy winner and we're thrilled the win will help them to greater success."
