The organisers of the Uppermill Whit Friday contest have warned that he 2027 contest may be its last unless they can attract new volunteers to help in running the popular event which was first held in 1884.
Renowned atmosphere
This year 56 bands, including winner Hepworth, Black Dyke and Brighouse & Rastrick competed at the venue, attracted by both its renowned atmosphere as well as its generous prize fund of over £5,000, which included a top prize of £1,250.
However, it has been reported in the Saddleworth Independent newspaper website that the increasing demands of hosting the even left the existing committee "struggling to cope".
Cannot continue
In the appeal the organisers stated, "Unless we can attract more volunteers to help organise and run the contest, the 2026 contest could be the last. We desperately want to avoid that happening, but our current team cannot continue to do everything required to keep this much-loved event going."
It was reported that the organisers are looking for volunteers to join the committee to assist with planning and preparation in the months leading up to the event as well as people willing to help with the practical arrangements on the day.
Unless we can attract more volunteers to help organise and run the contest, the 2026 contest could be the lastUppermillorganisers
Urgent appeal
The organisers added: "This is an urgent appeal. We need people to come forward soon so that we can start planning, share the workload and give this historic event a future. If you love Whit Friday, enjoy the bands, or simply want to help preserve an important part of Uppermill's heritage, place consider getting involved."
Contact:
Those interested in helping should contact the organisers through their Facebook page:
