Winning an Area title from the number 1 draw is always a difficult proposition, but it was accomplished in the most emphatic fashion by Crofton Silver in the Second Section.

And such was the imposing manner in which Dean Jones led his band to victory on 'Ex Terra Lucem' that his players could have been forgiven for celebrating victory with a chorus or two in the bar of a Latin motto of a slightly different vintage: 'Veni, Vedi, Vici' wouldn't have been out of place as they conquered Jonathan Bates' excellent test-piece in a manner that even their hardiest rivals couldn't quibble with.

Latest achievement

The victory is the latest impressive achievement for a band that has developed solidly under their MDs guidance over the last couple of years; winning the Third Section National title in 2016 and just missing out on a return last year in the Second Section.

It said a great deal about their character that any lingering disappointment that remained following a lowly return at Butlins earlier this year, as well as picking the dreaded Kelly's Eye out of the velvet draw bag, was put behind them in such confident, impressive fashion as soon as the MD brought down his baton.

Very impressive

All the basic foundation blocks of good intonation, relevant dynamics, warm ensemble and confident soloists were added to with a sense of character and atmosphere — just the elements John Doyle and Arsene Duc (who came, saw and conquered the weather himself) to secure victory with substance and style (aided by their excellent 'Best Soloist' euphonium player Matthew Reasbeck, who played with the musical 'risk taking' that John for one was yearning for).

It was very impressive. Crofton will head to Cheltenham as a band to fear — and to the First Section next year as one that can certainly make the step in class with realistic confidence.

Food for thought

It had to be good to secure victory mind you: Runner-up and fellow qualifiers South Yorkshire Police led by Jack Capstaff, as well as podium finishers Horbury Victoria pushing them close according to the judges. Both played very well indeed.

Meanwhile, top-six finishers Slaithwaite, Worsborough Brass and Meltham & Meltham Mills all gave them musical food for thought, whilst for many in the audience the exciting approach of BD1 certainly captured the imagination.

Really good performances

These were the "really good performances"that John Doyle spoke about in what he referred to as a contest where the general standard was also "very high". He wasn't wrong.

And whilst he highlighted some problems with the 'atmosphere' being muddied by the extraneous noises of squeaking mutes and shuffling feet, as well as some individual intonation and 'over -enthusiastic' percussion, these were minor concerns in a series of renditions that brought a sense of dance-like energy out in the opening 'Brigantes', a lovely tranquility to the 'St Elyn's Church' and the slow-burning illumination of the finale.

Each band left an impression of merit with their musicality and intelligent direction (the composer himself wasn't far out with his own results predictions), so whilst some will have been disappointed, all should be more than proud of their performances.

It made for a very good contest headed by a very, very good winner.

It was very impressive. Crofton will head to Cheltenham as a band to fear — and to the First Section next year as one that can certainly make the step in class with realistic confidence4BR

Result:

Second Section:

Adjudicators: John Doyle and Arsene Duc

1. Crofton Silver (Dean Jones)*
2. South Yorkshire Police (Jack Capstaff)*
3. Horbury Victoria (Duncan Beckley)
4. Slaithwaite (Ryan Watkins)
5. Worsbrough Brass (John Hopkinson)
6. Meltham & Meltham Mills (Tim Sidwell)
7. Clifton & Lightcliffe (John Clay)
8. BD1 Brass (Lee Skipsey)
9. Kippax (Ian Knapton)

*Qualifies for National Final

Best Soloist: Euphonium (Crofton Silver)
Youngest Player: Harry Moulson (aged 11) — Worsbrough Brass