The British Open Spring Festival Championship organisers have confirmed to 4BR that following an inspection visit to the Winter Gardens in Blackpool to check on the current refurbishment work that is being carried out, the Spanish Hall venue will be used for the Senior Trophy contest on Saturday 12th May.

Does not detract

Contest controller Frank Hodges told 4BR: "We have been working closely with the Winter Gardens to ensure that the extensive development work does not greatly detract from the contest day experience for bands and audience.

The completion of scaffolding work in the Spanish Hall is significant, but following a detailed visit and consultation we believe that it will not detract from performances.

We have taken on board expert advice that the hall is safe and acoustically satisfactory. The information already sent to the competing bands therefore remains the same."

Parking fines

However, Frank Hodges did state that the Civil Enforcement Officer Supervisor for Parking Services for Blackpool Council has asked that all bands advise their coach drivers that once they have dropped off their passengers that they immediately move their coach onto one of the official coach parks in the area.

Penalty Charge Notices will be given to those vehicles parked illegally.

We have taken on board expert advice that the hall is safe and acoustically satisfactory. The information already sent to the competing bands therefore remains the sameFrank Hodges

Further information:

If any band requires further information please contact:

Frank Hodges
39 Broxton Avenue
Orrell
Wigan
WN5 8NP
Telephone: 01942 212418
Mobile: 07930 562 768

E-mail frankhodges@btinternet.com