Despite not being able to regain the North of England Regional title in Durham on the weekend, Reg Vardy did have a significant milestone to celebrate, as the band secured its 50th qualification for the National Championships at the Royal Albert Hall.
1963 debut
The band first qualified in 1963 under its original name of Craghead Colliery, and has missed out on just six occassions since.
Their spokesperson told 4BR: "Our congratulations go to NASUWT Riverside on their victory and we look forward to joining them in Kensington in October for the final.
We are also very proud of our achievement and it will be a very special occasion to mark when we take to the stage at the Albert Hall later this year."