In 2007 St.Helens Council took the bold step to develop a St.Helens Festival built on the success of the famous St.Helens Show.

The central event for 2008 will be taking place on the 5th and 6th July at Sherdley Park, building on the success’ of 2007, but preceding this St.Helens Council have teamed up with contest promoters Lancashire Contests to initiate a March and Hymn Tune Festival to be held on the 31st May 2008 in the Town Square.

In determined manner to make this event attractive and sympathetic to bands the council have not only sought expertise from within the movement but have also invested £5700 in prize money for Five Sections plus a Youth category.

All sections will be drawn and play together with the section winners of the March each take a trophy and £500 each whilst the Hymn winners will earn themselves a trophy with £200.

In organising this quality event the Council ....is bringing some well known bands into town....providing visitors with some great entertainment~Cllr Wally Ashcroft

Keen to see this Festival both appeal and succeed, the festival will be held on the square in front of the historic Town Hall and boasts a schedule offering a Best Overall March prize of £1000 with £500 for the Best overall hymn.

Speaking on behalf of St.Helens Council Cllr Wally Ashcroft, Executive Member for Culture, Heritage and Sport, told 4BR:

"St.Helens has a rich brass band heritage born from our mining history
which remains strong in the memories of our residents.
In organising this quality event, the Council is not only celebrating its mining heritage but is bringing some well known bands into town which will compete to high standards providing visitors with some great entertainment.

"The Brass Band competition will also help to showcase our local culture to a wider audience as part of our contribution to Liverpool Capital of Culture 2008."

In similar style to Whit Friday a short march will be played to take bands to the playing area before the adjudication for the main prizes.

Entry details for the Festival can be obtained from Derek Atkinson on 01744-755463 or by e-mail to derek@nwcbba.fsnet.co.uk