The newly crowned Norwegian National Champion Eikanger Bjorsvik has confirmed that they have accepted the invitation from the organisers of the British Open Championship to compete at this year's event at Symphony Hall in Birmingham on Saturday 8th September.

Invitation

It follows constructive discussions between both parties following the band's victory at the 2017 European Championship in Oostende which initially triggered the invitation request.

It is understood that clarity was sought over player numbers, with the existing rules for the event (a maximum of 25 brass players plus percussionists as required by the score) remaining in place.

Two overseas bands

It will mean that the British Open will now contain two overseas bands for the very first time — with defending champion Valaisia from Switzerland having already confirmed their attendance in a field of 19 competitors.

The full line-up of competing bands will be confirmed following the Grand Shield qualification contest in Blackpool on Saturday 12th May.

Warm welcome

A British Open spokesperson told 4BR: "We are delighted that Eikanger has accepted our invitation and we look forward to offering a warm welcome to the British Open.

We also offer our congratulations on their victory at the Norwegian National Championships in Bergen on the weekend."

We are all looking forward to taking part in this historic brass band contest, one that is known and respected across the worldEikanger Bjorsvik Band

Historic

In an interview with 4BR following their Bergen success Eikanger Band Manager Viggo Borge confirmed the British Open news.

He later told 4BR: "We wanted to ensure that we knew exactly what was required and we thank the organisers for their patience and understanding in discussing our questions.

We are all looking forward to taking part in this historic brass band contest, one that is known and respected across the world."