Several hundred people enjoyed a classy afternoon of entertainment as three bands took part in the Scenic Circle Hotels Band of the Year competition.

Pelorus Trust Wellington Brass (David Bremner), Canterbury Brass (Shane Foster), and Woolston Brass (Graham Hickman)each played diverse, unique and professionally presented concert programs to an audience of several hundred.

The winning soloist was Phil Johnston of Woolston Brass, and Woolston Brass were declared the winning band and claimed the title "Band of the Year".

Woolston's program included Excerpt from 'Swan Lake'Act 1 by Tchaikovsky arr. Trevor Davis, Swiss Folk Song arr. Thomas Ruedi, Czardas (featuring Phil Johnston) arr. Duncan, Scherzo from Symphony No. 10 arr Duncan, Minnie the Moocher arr David Flu, and Comedy Tonight arr. Smith.

Canterbury Brass played The Ayres of Agincourt arr. Wayne Duncan, On with the Motley (featuring Marcus Salone) arr. Farr, Granada arr. Broadbent, Irish Tune from County Derry arr. Williams and Gaelforce by Peter Graham.

Pieces played by Pelorus Trust Wellington Brass were Intrada Ein'Feste Burg by Farr, Mambo Caliente arr Smith, Brilliante (featuring David Chaulk on Euphonium) by Peter Graham, A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square arr Fernie, Kaleidoscope arr. Brian Bowen.

The afternoon was a step up in quality in comparison to last years Band of the Year.

The adjudicators were Simone Rebello, Peter Adams and local radio personality Peter Mac.