The National Association of Brass Band Conductors annual competition was held on the weekend, with an international line-up of 11 contenders looking to claim the prestigious 2018 award.

Conducting the Championship Section Rainford Band, each came under the watchful eye of adjudicators Paul Holland and Mark Heron on their 15-minute slot working on one of three set-works.

Six finalists

Six finalists, Ryan Watkins (UK), John Ward (UK), Hugh Morris (UK), Josh Geddes (AUS), Pascal Maillard (FRA) and Jack Capstaff (UK) were then given the opportunity to rehearse and perform with Eccles Borough Band in concert in front of a packed audience at Eccles Town Hall.

Following a short concert interlude given by the band under MD and NABBC Chairperson Mareika Gray, the announcement of the 2018 winners was made, with Josh Geddes taking the honour ahead of podium finishers Ryan Watkins and Jack Capstaff.

Winner

Josh had travelled all the way from Australia and will now have the opportunity to work in rehearsal and concert with National Champion Brighouse & Rastrick and the world's number 1 ranked band, Cory.

Speaking on his win Josh told 4BR: "I'm still on Cloud Nine. It was a surprise to even make it to the final in the UK, so now I've got find extras room in my luggage for the trophy!

It was an honour to have been chosen amongst some wonderful conductors, whose support and friendship was wonderful."

He added: "My thanks go to the NABBC and to the adjudicators who gave such constructive feedback. I can't wait to work with Cory and Brighouse and to show my wife Jane and daughter Alyssa, whose support is unwavering, the trophy.

I'm now looking forward to returning the UK to continue my development as a conductor."

I can't wait to work with Cory and Brighouse and to show my wife Jane and daughter Alyssa, whose support is unwavering, the trophyJosh Geddes

Complete success

Meanwhile, NABBC Chairperson Mareika Gray added: "The competition was a complete success and it was pleasing to receive so many positive comments from adjudicators, competitors, bands and audience. Congratulations go to all competitors, with a special mention of course to our 2018 winner Josh Geddes."

The organisation's annual general meeting saw the appointment to the executive committee of Alex Parker, Tom Hancock and Paul Holland, whilst the date for the 2019 competition was agreed as Saturday 8th June.