Speaking with 4BR, Karyn and Martin Mortimer expressed their delight at the way the test piece 'Rococo Variations' had been received by everybody involved.

What a day

Karyn told 4BR; "We want to thank Professor Gregson for his wonderful music. What a day this has been, it's been tremendous. Every band has put so much work into today and we want to thank them so much for their efforts."

We want to thank Professor Gregson for his wonderful music. What a day this has been, it's been tremendous. Every band has put so much work into today and we want to thank them so much for their effortsKaryn Mortimer

In praise of sponsor

The British Open this year had a new sponsor in the form of Besson Musical Instruments and Karyn also wanted to place on record their thanks for supporting the event.

In addition to Besson, Karyn and Martin also took the opportunity to thank everybody who made the day a success, from contest controller, Frank Hodges and his army of volunteers, Ray Payne, the press who promote and support the event, and the judges who make the all important decisions.

Hard work

The hard work of Newstead Band and Duncan Beckley preparing the test piece for the judges to hear on Friday was also something that Karyn wanted to acknowledge. "Newstead have done a great job and we hope they have enjoyed their day at the British Open too," she added.

Thanks Bob

Karyn also heaped praise on Robert Mullholland of Peak Press who produced the programme. "Our thanks go to Bob for a wonderful job once again. He's been brilliant and the programme looked fantastic this year once again."