The new Welsh banding season will kick off on February 16th when 13 competitors line up in entertainment battle to see who can claim the 16th Welsh Open title in Porthcawl.

Four in a row

Reigning champions Tredegar will be looking to make it four wins in a row at the art deco Porthcawl Pavilion under MD Ian Porthouse and start their season off by taking home the £1,000 first prize and the magnificent CISWO Challenge Trophy for the 11th time.

However, they are sure to face a strong challenge to their hegemony from a line-up that includes last year’s runner up and inform rival Tongwynlais Temperance.

They will be seeking their first ‘Open’ victory on their first contest appearance since their superb fourth place finish at the National Finals.

Adjudication

Three time champion BTM will be looking to claim their first success at the event since 2009 by impressing open adjudicator Chris Davies OBE with their 20 minute programme, whilst 2012 Welsh League champions Burry Port head a strong contingent of South Wales rivals.

Rivals

These include League runner-up Tylorstown, Abergavenny Borough, City of Cardiff (Melingriffith), Lewis Merthyr, Llwydcoed, Markham, Pontardulais and City of Cardiff (Melingriffith) 2, who qualified for the event after winning the Miner’s Welfare Entertainment contest.

The cross border challenge will be provided by welcome visitors Staines Brass, who make their third journey across the Severn Bridge.

There will be a comfort break at the midway point of the day, which starts at 12 noon to allow people to enjoy the excellent local catering establishments, whist there are additional prizes on offer for the most entertaining band, highest placed First Section band and Best Soloist.

The Welsh Open continues to provide a popular and exciting day of brass band entertainment at a lovely venue with excellent facilities for both bands and listenersRob Gowing

Exciting day

Event organiser Rob Gowing told 4BR: "The Welsh Open continues to provide a popular and exciting day of brass band entertainment at a lovely venue with excellent facilities for both bands and listeners.

We have enjoyed growing support from the Welsh banding public and I am sure we will have another day of top class entertainment."

Tickets

Tickets for the event are now on sale from the Porthcawl Pavilion on 01656 815995 — £5 stalls unreserved and £6 balcony reserved.