Brass Bands England (BBE) has offered its congratulations to Youth Brass 2000, Wardle Academy and Elland Silver Youth who represented England at last weekend's European Youth Brass Band Championship in Utrecht.

Headline grabbers

A spokesperson told 4BR: "All three bands performed extremely well against strong opposition. It was though, the performances of the Midlands-based Youth Brass 2000 and Wardle Academy from Rochdale in Greater Manchester that will grab the headlines.

MD Chris Jeans assembled a fine programme that left no one in any doubt as to the outcome in the Premier Section title, whilst Lee Rigg's musical leadership of Wardle Academy Youth saw them deservedly claim the Development Section title.

Thrilled

BBE Chairman Mike Kilroy who was supporting the bands in Utrecht told 4BR: "We are absolutely thrilled for Youth Brass 2000 and Wardle Academy following their outstanding victories and we offer them our heartiest congratulations.

We are also extremely proud of the performances of all three of England's youth bands and would like to thank the young musicians, their conductors, teachers, parents and helpers for their huge commitment to performing at the event and representing England so well."

He added: "We hope that they enjoyed their performances and that such positive experiences will encourage them to play vital roles in England's resurgence in international banding in the years ahead."

We are absolutely thrilled for Youth Brass 2000 and Wardle Academy following their outstanding victories and we offer them our heartiest congratulationsBBE Chairman, Mike Kilroy

Thanks

Meanwhile, Fairey Band represented England in the Championship Section, finishing ninth.

Mike added: "Despite two excellent performances against the finest bands in Europe, Fairey will obviously be disappointed.

However, we offer our thanks for the commitment they have shown over recent months in raising funds and preparing to represent England at this important event."