Desford Colliery Band recorded their second contest win of the year at Bedworth Civic Centre on Sunday.

Their 13th Championship Section Midland Area title had been a long time coming after their last win in 2003, with two second place qualifications to the National Finals in the interim.

Great acoustic

The Band’s Soprano player Martin Britt was keen to applaud the new venue. He told 4BR: "The acoustics at Bedworth are ideal, there’s just enough warmth in the hall to create a bit of atmosphere without disguising the detail, I really enjoyed myself!"

The acoustics at Bedworth are ideal, there’s just enough warmth in the hall to create a bit of atmosphere without disguising the detail, I really enjoyed myself! Soprano, Martin Britt

MD return

The contest marked the return of Musical Director Nigel Seaman after a serious road accident put him out of action in November last year.

Nigel was clearly delighted to be back at the helm. He told 4BR: "The band has made real headway over the past few contests in terms of the sound being produced. It was a pleasure to be back in the band room again and to be in front of the band in full song on Sunday."

Festival Music

During the week before the contest, Desford commenced their working relationship with Will & Tom Watson of Prozone Music by recording Eric Ball’s 'Festival Music' along with music performed during their win at Butlins in January.

Whit Friday entry?

Desford is increasingly busy on the contesting scene of late. Having won the first two contests of the year, netting £6,200 in prize money, Desford will be looking to be announced from the stage at the big three contests — The Masters, British Open and National Finals.

There are even rumours that the Band has booked a bus to Saddleworth on 16th May this year.