Older players of the Gresley Colliery Band had cause to look to their laurels recently, as the organisation's Youth Band held it’s annual 'Solo Contest'.

Determination

11 members of the youth band took part, with each contestant showing the determination and dedication that will hopefully take them on to join the Senior band.

Special mention

Special mention must be given to Pete Hylton and Helen Jones — who share the responsibility for the youth band – and also members of the senior band who not only give up their time to ‘sit in’ at rehearsals and coach the youth band players, but also help out at engagements that the youth band undertakes during the year.

I am very proud of all of our members, in particular the younger members of the band who stood up in front of 50 people and played with confidence and panachePeter Hylton

Results:

Most Improved player: Chelsea Hopkins
Bondsperson of the Year: Grace Davies
Conductor's Award: Dan Smith

Solo Competition:

1. Grace Davies
2. Dale Hopkins
3. William Davies

The youth band’s Musical Director, Peter Hylton told 4BR: "I am very proud of all of our members, in particular the younger members of the band who stood up in front of 50 people and played with confidence and panache."