There were cheers and more than a few tears following Pillowell Silver Band’s victory in the Fourth Section of the recent West of England Championships at Torquay.

20 rivals

The band beat off the challenge of 20 rivals to claim the title for the first time since 2004 and book their place at the National Final in Cheltenham in September.

The triumph comes just a few months after the band enjoyed a clean sweep of six trophies and first place at the Gloucestershire Brass Band Association Own Choice March & Test Piece Contest in Ross-on-Wye.

The majority of players live locally and the band includes six under-18s and seven members who have graduated from Pillowell’s Training Band.

Successful

MD Ian Whitburn told 4BR: “We have spent the last year building a band that has grown in stature and strength. A successful summer series of concerts followed by wins in Porthcawl and sweeping the board at Ross on Wye meant we were on the right foot for this year's Area contest."

The hard work and dedication meant we were able to give a confident and stylish performance that was hard to beat. I'm very proud of this result and of each and every member of the bandMD, Ian Whitburn

Proud

He added: "The hard work and dedication meant we were able to give a confident and stylish performance that was hard to beat. I'm very proud of this result and of each and every member of the band.”