The Brass in Concert Championship has announced a change in the contest's line-up following the withdrawal of Tredegar Band.

It will see Grand Shield champion Milnrow replace the Welsh band in the draw for the sold out contest at the Glasshouse International Centre for Music in Gateshead on Saturday 14th November in association with Yamaha, Banks Group and World of Brass.

Difficult decision

Tredegar's newly appointed Chairperson, Rob Westacott, stated: "Unfortunately, financial pressures mean we have had to make the difficult decision to withdraw from this year's event.

We are very grateful to Nigel Stevens and his team for their understanding and the professional way in which they have worked with us. We wish them and all the competitors the very best for what we are sure will be yet another fantastic weekend and hope to be able to return to the banding world's premier entertainment contest in the future."

Milnrow debut

Tredegar's withdrawal sees their place as the final performer in the 11-band draw taken by debutants Milnrow.

The North West band not only reclaimed the Grand Shield in May under MD Chris Binns to return to the British Open for the first time in nine years, but they have also won the last two Scottish Open titles.

A spokesperson commented: "While we sympathise with Tredegar in being unable to perform at this year's Brass in Concert Championship, we are also very honoured to have been invited to take their place at one of the real highlights of the brass band calendar.

Despite the short turnaround preparations are fully in motion and we are determined to make an impact on our debut at the Glasshouse."

Grateful

Speaking on behalf of Brass in Concert, CEO Nigel Stevens, added: "We are very grateful to Milnrow and MD Chris Binns for stepping at this advanced stage to replace Tredegar, and we would like to thank them for showing remarkable commitment.

Milnrow will take Tredegar's draw — 11th — on what promises to be a fantastic day's entertainment, as bands compete for the biggest prize pot in the band contesting world."

Livestream

Although the contest is sold out, the action can be enjoyed at www.wobplay.com