The first Hebden Bridge Heritage Weekend March Contest will take place on Sunday 29th June, where there's plenty of prize money up for grabs.

Junior bands

Junior bands could scoop up a £200 first prize or £100 second prize. There is also an award for the best junior soloist on the day. In total there is prize money in excess of £1700 allocated for the event.

Great day

The event promises a great day for brass enthusiasts from near and far, as it is to be held in the picturesque setting of Bridge Gate and St George’s Square, with its many quaint pubs and restaurants.

Pre drawn

The pre-drawn contest begins at around 12.00 and up to 20 bands will play for the many prizes. The band has decided to break with the norm and instead offer substantial prize money to both the Youth and lower sections, not just the top section.

Finale

The contest forms the finale for the Hebden Bridge Heritage Weekend which will take place on 28th and 29th June and also includes a Gala Concert on the Saturday evening at Hebden Bridge Picture House, with guest soloist Philip McCann.

This weekend promises to be a magnificent weekend of brass in Hebden Bridge with a Heritage Gala Concert and March contest for all to enjoy.

We are delighted to be holding this event in Hebden Bridge, a town with a rich banding history going back more than 150 yearsBand Chairman Ian Plant

Mortimer link

The idea of the weekend is to celebrate the band’s link with the Mortimer family. Fred Mortimer was born in Hebden Bridge and started his musical career as a cornet player in Hebden, working his way along the front row seats, and eventually becoming a 'playing' conductor, playing with the right hand and beating time with the left.

HM

Harry Mortimer received his first cornet from Hebden Bridge Brass Band as the pre-war committee book reads: "Master H. Mortimer is to be provided with a cornet on which to learn."

The band is also pleased to welcome Martin Mortimer as a special guest at the event. There will also be displays by the Hebden Bridge Historical Society.

Band Chairman, Ian Plant told 4BR: "We are delighted to be holding this event in Hebden Bridge, a town with a rich banding history going back more than 150 years. The gala weekend will be a fantastic addition to the brass band calendar and will be a great weekend with lots of fun had by both players and spectators."

More information

Any queries or entries regarding this contest or for more information, please contact Steve Gardner on 07813 110126.