4BR has been informed that Stan Lippeatt will adjudicate at the 2014 Welsh Open contest on February 15th next year

A spokesperson told 4BR: "We welcome Stan for his first visit to the Welsh Open where we are sure he will receive a warm welcome and plenty of high class brass band entertainment to pass judgement on."

Curtain raiser

The 17th running of the event at Porthcawl’s Grand Pavilion provides a vibrant Welsh banding movement with a high profile curtain raiser to its domestic season.

In the past few years the contest has also welcomed entrants from both sides of the River Severn, and that open policy continues for a contest that boasts a first prize of £1000 and the opportunity for bands to claim the magnificent Miners CISWO Challenge Trophy.

Championship & First

Stan will judge in the open at an event contested by bands graded nationally in the Championship and First Section, and with Welsh banding on such a high, the organisers hope to build on the success by yet again attracting a packed audience to listen to the entertainment programmes on show.

With additional awards on offer for the podium finishers, highest placed First Section band, Best Soloist, Best Cornet, Youngest Instrumentalist and Most Entertaining Band, the generous prize fund is sure to attract a strong field of competitors.

We welcome Stan for his first visit to the Welsh Open where we are sure he will receive a warm welcome and plenty of high class brass band entertainment to pass judgement onContest organisers

Bursary Award

In addition, the bands entering the contest can also apply for a £500 Bursary award, available to any playing member, regardless of age who is currently undertaking musical studies.

More information

For further information please contact Rob Gowing on: robjgowing@aol.com