The annual Newtown March & Open Air contest proved to be a great success on the weekend, as the mid-Wales market town welcomed 11 bands from all parts of the country.

Adjudicator John Glyn Jones said that he was "very impressed"with all competitors, complimenting them on their high standard of playing and varied programmes. Deportment judge, Alan Bourne was also very complimentary, commenting on the high standard maintained by bands in their presentation and deportment.

Appreciated

Following the main march contest down the local High Street, the bands played in the Town Hall grounds for the music element. A large and appreciative audience certainly enjoyed the performances as the bands showcased their march, hymn tune and entertainment piece selections.

Local favourites Newtown Silver took first prize under MD Steve Edwards, with Porthaethwy / Menai Bridge Band gaining the accolade for deportment.

During the collation of the results, all the competitors got together for a massed band performance of the march 'Slaidburn', conducted by John Glyn Jones.

Biggest in Wales

A spokesperson told 4BR: "With nearly 300 players this was arguably the largest massed band ever to be assembled in Wales!

The performance was an awesome sight and a truly magnificent sound, which proved to be the highlight of the day for many players and the conductor alike!"

Highlights of the contest day will be shown on the S4C evening news programme Heno on Monday evening (10th June) at 7.00pm, whilst the organisers thanked event sponsors Newtown Town Council and Newtown Carnival Trust.

Highlights of the contest day will be shown on the S4C evening news programme Heno on Monday evening (10th June) at 7.00pm4BR

Result:

1. Newtown Silver Band
2. Seindorf Beaumaris Youth Band
3. Rhondda Fach Youth Band

Best March: Newtown Silver Band
Best Hymn Tune: Seindorf Beaumaris Youth

Deportment Prize (Open): Porthaethwy Menai Bridge
Deportment Prize Youth/Training: Seindorf Beaumaris Youth

Soloist Award: (solo cornet) — Seindorf Beaumaris Youth Band
Best Bass Section: Newtown Silver Band
Youngest Brass Player: Ella Foskett (Newtown Training Band)
Youngest Percussion Player: Holly Rees (Rhondda Fach Youth Band)

Highest placed non-registered Band: Seindorf Beaumaris LSW
Highest placed Training Band (not in main prizes): Newtown Training Band
Highest Place Youth Band (not in main prizes) North Powys Youth Band
Runner-up Training Band (not in main prizes) Porthaethwy Menai Bridge Training