The four ensembles that form the Coalburn Brass Band family; Silver, Intermediate, Bronze and Percussion Academy, recently came together to celebrate a great year of success in 2017.

It was one that saw the Silver Band representing Scotland at the European Youth Championship in Ostende, along with the on-going growth and success of the Intermediate and Bronze Bands coupled with the progress of their Percussion Academy.

Annual awards

110 players, parents and supporters enjoyed what was the ninth annual awards night, where they were joined by special guest Christine Blackwood.

Percussion Academy Awards saw the 'Most Improved Player' go George Anderson, who has grown hugely in confidence over the past year, whilst the Bronze Band awards saw the 'Best Section' go to the percussion team of Becca Sinclair, Finlay Damer, George Anderson and Euan Coulter.

The 'Band Person of the Year' went jointly to Abigail Barrett and Hannah Archibald, both of whom have worked incredibly hard and been ever present at both engagements and rehearsals, whilst the 'Most Improved Player' went to cornet player Tilly Trickey, who had a fantastic year playing several solos and attending the National Youth Brass Band of Scotland summer course.

Children's Choice

Meanwhile, the 'Children's Choice Award', voted for by the children to a player who they felt deserves to be recognised for their commitment, playing, improvement and behaviour at rehearsals went to youngest member, 6 year old Lauren Howarth.

There was also a lovely moment when all the children were invited to be presented with an individual medal to recognise their Gold Award and runner-up finish at last year's Scottish Youth Brass Band Championships.

110 players, parents and supporters enjoyed what was the ninth annual awards night, where they were joined by special guest Christine Blackwood4BR

Intermediate awards

The Intermediate Band awards saw the 'Most Improved Player' go to solo horn Eilidh Court and cornet Matthew Howarth.

Young cornet player Beth Damer was voted 'Players' Player of the Year' with the 'Player of the Year' award going to euphonium player Jack Archibald who has continued to develop throughout the past year.

Silver Band prizes

Finally it was the turn of the Silver Band with MD Gareth Bowman announcing the winners. The 'Best Section' was the euphoniums of Ian Jamieson, Helena Dunsmore and Jack Archibald, whilst the 'Conductors Awards' went to Eb bass player, David Fehilly. The 'Band Person of the Year' went jointly to Alan Court and Daniel Beadle.

Finally, the prestigious 'Player of the Year' award went to solo euphonium, Ian Jamieson.