The recent third edition of the innovative Brass Factor Competition proved to be a great success in Holmfirth’s packed out Picturedrome theatre.

Commemoration

This year’s event began with a moving commemoration of Thomas Wroe, a local soldier who was killed on active service in Afghanistan only a few weeks after his 18th birthday in September.

Two young members of the Yorkshire Regiment brought out the contest trophy to the main stage, before the audience, which included the Mayor of Kirklees David Ridgeway, observed a moment of silence in honour of his immense courage and ultimate sacrifice.

Funds

The Brass Factor evening raised over £300 for the benefit and welfare of officers and soldiers of the Yorkshire Regiment and their families.

Appropriately for a truly memorable British year, the ‘Best of British’ theme saw tremendous entertainment provided by the competing bands of Hade Edge, Hade-Edge Juniors, Slaithwaite, Delph, Skelmanthorpe and Emley, who contained players from the age of 8 to 65.

Brilliant Hade Edge

In the end, it was the brilliant creativity of Simon Wood and Hade Edge that captured the votes of the adjudication panel of David Hoyle, radio presenter at BBC Radio Leeds, former Children In Need presenter Jon Hammond, Oldham Community Radio presenter Gilbert Symes and the illustrious Simon Cowell of the banding world — Kevin Wadsworth.

They simply astounded the audience with their breathtaking performances of Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller’ and The Beatles ‘Hey Jude’.

Winners

Hade Edge weren’t the only winners on the night either, as Skelmanthorpe B’s astounding 14 year old xylophone player, Ben Scholes claimed the ‘Bes Soloist’ Award and the cracking 9 year old Matthew Sykes of Hade Edge Junior Band received the title of ‘Best Young Player’.

Although there was plenty of friendly rivalry on show, the brilliant atmosphere and interaction of the audience meant that the prizes were a nice addition to a contest format that continues to grow.

The Brass Factor evening raised over £300 for the benefit and welfare of officers and soldiers of the Yorkshire Regiment and their families4BR

Result:

1. Hade Edge
2. Skelmanthorpe B
3. Emley Band