The Miners’ Welfare Entertainment Contest for Second, Third and Fourth Section nationally graded bands, has once again attracted a healthy list of entrants from both sides of the River Severn.

Popular addition

The event, which is funded by the South Wales Miners Trust Fund Scheme, is now in its fourth year, and has become a popular addition to the contesting calendar with a generous prize fund and the opportunity for the winning band to play in the Welsh Open in February next year.

The contest will be held at the Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl, on September 13th, where the competitors will have to impress adjudicator Paul Holland as well as the packed audience with their programmes if they are to take home the impressive South Wales Miners’ Challenge Cup.

Entrants

The line up of bands this years is:

A. W. Parker (Drybrook), Abertillery & District Youth, Cinderford, Cross Keys Silver, Ebbw Valley Brass, Gwaun Cae Gurwen, Melingriffith 2, Oxford Cherwell Brass, Pillowell Silver, RAF St. Athan Voluntary, Thomas Coaches Mid Rhondda, Upper Rhondda, Ynyshir.

Interest

A spokesperson told 4BR: "The event continues to grow and attract a great deal of interest on both sides of the border. There is always a warm welcome to visitors and the audience is guaranteed plenty of great music making from all the bands."

They added: "We are also delighted that this year we welcome debutants Cinderford, Oxford Cherwell Brass, Pillowell and Upper Rhondda."

The event continues to grow and attract a great deal of interest on both sides of the borderspokesperson

Tickets

The contest will start at midday and tickets can be purchased in advance from the booking office at the Grand Pavilion on 01656 815995.