Around 80 bands braved snowy roads, storms and flood warnings to converge on Skegness in Lincolnshire last weekend to blow away the holiday cobwebs and kick-start their contesting year at the Butlin’s Mineworkers championships.The weekend features test-piece contests for all sections on the Saturday followed by entertainment in the on-site pubs and clubs ranging from the Bavarian Stompers to the Syd Lawrence Orchestra; then the championship section Entertainment Contest on Sunday. In addition to the competing bands, hundreds of players and supporters from around the country make the trip for what is arguably the most fun and social event in the banding calendar.
The South East and scaba were well represented, and huge congratulations go to the newly crowned 4th section Champions Crystal Palace, and to Friary Guildford for their fourth place overall and winning ‘Most Entertaining’ band in the invitation-only Championship section for the 2nd time in 3 years.
We look forward to hearing both bands on the same winning form at local events in 2017!