The Wychavon Festival of Brass has offered a heart-felt thank you to Dr Val Trim, who retires as Chairperson of the popular contest.

At the end of another successful event in Evesham, Oliver Wilson, who will take over as WFB Chairperson in the new year, took the opportunity to publicly thank her for her years of dedicated service and commitment.

A committee member since 2009 and Chairperson since 2013, Val oversaw many positive changes — from gaining charitable status to becoming a qualifying contest for the British Open Spring Festival, welcoming bands from all parts of the UK and Europe and seeing the contest grow in stature and size.

Respect

The reception from the audience after Val was presented with a wide range of gifts (including her very own, long awaited 'Best Baritone' medal) spoke volumes of the respect she and her husband Chris has been held in by the wider banding community.

Oliver Wilson told 4BR: "If you've attended our festival in recent years, you know what Val has brought to the contest and what big shoes she leaves to fill. We offer our sincere thanks to her for everything she has done and celebrate the indelible mark she has left on this contest.

We also look forward to welcoming her back next year as a volunteer. Our heart-felt thanks go to Val, for everything"

Next contest:

The 2026 Wychavon contest will take place at TDMS in Evesham on Saturday 31st October 2026.