4BR has been informed that entries are now being taken for this year's West of England Bandsman’s Festival with full details on the Festival website.

This year, forms will only available through the website and will not be sent out by post.

Porthouse to decide

Adjudicator Ian Porthouse will be making his first appearance at the unique open air festival, which draws thousands of spectators from all over the world.

Seven sections

Bands can compete in seven different sections, including Youth and Training, with the organisers particularly keen to encourage young musicians to participate in competitive music making.

Four grand plus

This year, the prize money on offer is over £4000, with £1000 going to the winner of the Championship Section, as well as the prestigious Royal Trophy, presented by the then Prince of Wales to the Festival in 1913.

There are more than forty other trophies presented on the day, including 12 special soloists awards, which are eagerly sought after by the musicians, whilst there is also a wide range of test pieces, including music by Gilbert Vinter, Simon Dobson, Kenneth Downie, Edward Gregson and Malcolm Arnold.

All the details for Bugle are on their website with the closing date for entries being 3rd May4BR

Closing date

Entries will close on 3rd May, but applications should be made as soon as possible to guarantee participation.

Full details

Full details are available at www.webf.co.uk