There was a fine day of contesting at the Durham County Brass Band Association Contest held at East Durham College, Peterlee.

Plenty to ponder

Adjudicator Dr Richard Jones had plenty to ponder with a number of fine own choice performances from bands as they start working towards the Regional Championship contest in Darlington in March.

Durham Miners Association took the honours in the B Section, ahead of Billingham Silver and Houghton Brass, whilst North Skelton (above) made a triumphant return to the contest stage after a 3 year absence.

Looking forward

Conducted by Denis Noble, their performance of ‘Rhapsody in Brass’ by Dean Goffin scooped the top prize. Euphonium player Chris Coupland and the trombone and bass sections also claimed individual awards.

A spokesperson told 4BR: "After this success the band is looking forward to competing in the area contest next month in Darlington."

North Skelton made a triumphant return to the contest stage after a 3 year absence4BR

Results:

Section B:
1. Durham Miners Association
2. Billingham Silver
3. Houghton Brass

Best cornet: Durham Miners Association
Best Percussion Section: Houghton Brass
Best Middle of Band: Durham Miners Association
Highest placed Third Section Band: Houghton Brass

Section C:
1. North Skelton
2. Bearpark & Esh
3. Craghead Colliery

Best Euphonium: North Skelton
Best Trombone Section: North Skelton
Best Bass Section: North Skelton
Best Cornet Player: Bearpark & Esh

There were no entries for section A