4BR has confirmed that the second day of the North of England and West of England Regional Championship events in both Durham and Torquay will go ahead as planned.

Contact

4BR has been in direct contact with Regional Secretaries Tony Griffiths and Sue Oldfield who have conformed that the second day of competition will take place.

It is understood that five bands have withdrawn from the Third Section competition in Torquay this morning, but that the Championship Section has been unaffected. It is understood that there have been no withdrawals in Durham.

North of England statement

In addition, a statement was issued on behalf of the North of England Regional Committee by Tony Griffiths, addressed to Brass Bands England Relationship and Partnership Development Manager, Alex Parker.

In it he says:

"I am very concerned that it seems BBE are making statements that contravene Official Government advice.

The regions have worked extremely hard in difficult circumstances to maintain calm and use the FACTS in making their decisions.

I did speak to Kenny (Kenny Crookston, BBE Chief Executive Officer) today (13th March) and I feel extremely disappointed that he did not mention the impending statement.

As far as the advice re blowing, brass instruments condensation etc. , can you send me the official scientific advice to back this up. I wasn't aware that he was medically or scientifically qualified to make this statement, although I may be wrong.

I am extremely annoyed the way this has been done and I can only assume it is to cause maximum confusion and negative effect on our event.

Tony Griffiths
Regional Secretary
North of England