The Brass Band League of Northern Ireland held its Spring Festival at the Strule Arts Theatre in Omagh on the weekend — marking the welcome return to 'live' contesting for the banding movement.

The organisation offered its congratulations to all the bands that took part, as well as thanking adjudicator Duncan Beckley, Fermanagh & Omagh Distract Council and those who helped organise the successful event.

They stated on their Facebook page, "We really appreciate all the help we received. Thanks as well to everyone who took part and those who travelled to support their friends and family. We really loved getting to see you all in person."

Laganvale success

The Championship Section honours and Rothman Trophy went to Laganvale (Metal Technology) Band led by Keith Anderson with a fine performance of Peter Graham's 'Essence of Time'.

The band also picked up the awards for the winning conductor, 'Best Trombones' as well as their star player Mark Ruddock taking the Peter Arthurs Memorial Trophy as 'Best Soprano'.

Laganvale was delighted with the victory and stated on their Facebook site that they were "absolutely over the moon".

Second place and the 'Best Percussion' award went to Downshire Brass under Michael Alcorn, who now head to take part in the Challenge Section of the European Championships in Birmingham, whilst the final podium spot was claimed by Third Carrickfergus Band.

The 'Best Soloist' award went to Louise Bell, principal cornet of 1st Old Boys Band. Louise now heads to Birmingham where she will play in the European Youth Brass Band alongside tuba player Andrew Milligan.

CWA victory

In the Second Section, victory and the Founders Cup Trophy went to CWA Brass led by Gary Proctor. The Carrickfergus based band claimed a clear two point margin of victory over rivals Roughan Silver, with Ballyduff Silver in third.

They also claimed the 'Best Horn Section' Jonathan Carroll Memorial Trophy.

The band stated on their Facebook page: "Massive thanks to Gary Proctor on directing the band over the last lot of weeks. Well done to all our soloists. Massive thanks to BBNI for hosting the event and the smooth running of the day.

One of the most important things for the band was the Jonathan Carroll Memorial Cup has come home. Jonny was the principal horn of the band and it means so much for us to have it back in our trophy cabinet."

St Mark's win

A delighted St Mark's Silver took the Third Section title playing 'English Folk Song Suite' as well as taking the 'Best Trombone Section' accolade. Dungannon Silver came just a point behind with Dynamic Brass in third.

They stated on their Facebook page that they were "very proud"of their success.

Laganvale was delighted with the victory and stated on their Facebook site that they were "absolutely over the moon"4BR

Results:
Championship Section:
Adjudicator: Duncan Beckley

1. Laganvale (Metal Technology) Band: 188
2. Downshire Brass: 187
3. Third Carrickfergus Band: 186
4. 1st Old Boys Silver: 185
5. Strabane Brass: 184
6. Murley Silver: 183

Best Soloist: Louise Bell (1st Old Boys Silver)
Best Percussion: Downshire Brass
Best Trombones: Laganvale (Metal Technology) Band
Best Soprano: Mark Ruddock (Laganvale (Metal Technology) Band)
Winning Conductor: Keith Anderson

Second Section:
Adjudicator: Duncan Beckley

1. CWA Brass: 182
2. Roughan Silver: 180
3. Ballyduff Silver: 178
4. Comber Silver: 176
5. Wellington Memorial Silver: 174

Best Soloist: Sam Brodison (Ballyduff Silver)
Best Horn Section: CWA Brass
Winning Conductor: Gary Proctor

Third Section:
Adjudicator: Duncan Beckley

1. St Mark's Silver: 174
2. Dungannon Silver: 173
3. Dynamic Brass: 171

Best Trombone Section: St Mark's Silver