The Durham County Brass Band Association, Picnic in the Park Entertainment Contest was held on the weekend amid the picturesque grounds of Houghall College on the outskirts of the city of Durham.

Compare and contrast

There was plenty of fine entertainment on show for adjudicator Alan Fernie to compare and contrast, with Durham Miners Association taking the Section A honours — their fourth consecutive podium finish in contests this year.

In the B Section it was Ferryhill Town that caught the ear of Alan Fernie the most in a highly enjoyable battle with rivals, whilst the cracking youth section saw Houghton Area Youth just pip their rivals Hetton Lyons Primary.

Very good feedback

Hugh Stephenson on behalf of the Association told 4BR: "When the Durham Light Infantry museum, which had been the contests home for many years, closed earlier this year, the grounds of Houghall College were chosen for the contest venue and the initial feedback has been very good."

Hugh added: "Once again the playing standards were high and enjoyed by a very appreciative audience. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Durham County Council for their continued support."

Once again the playing standards were high and enjoyed by a very appreciative audience. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Durham County Council for their continued supportHugh Stephenson

Results:

Section A:

1. Durham Miners Association (Stuart Gray)
2. Ellington Colliery (Jonathan Fenwick)
3. NASUWT Concert (David Conway)
4. Dunston Silver (Aidan Hodgson)
5. Houghton Brass (Tom Gibson)
6. Billingham Silver (Vaughan Evans)
7. Cockerton Silver (Mike Hardman)

Best March: Ellington Colliery
Best Soloist: Gill McCain (soprano) — Durham Miners Association
Best Second Section Band: Durham Miners Association

Section B:

1. Ferryhill Town (Andrew Hall)
2. Craghead (John Robson)
3. Lanchester (Steve Robson)

Best March: Ferryhill Town
Best Soloist: Jonathan Holden (cornet) Lanchester
Best Fourth Section Band: Craghead

Youth Section:

1. Houghton Area Youth (Brian Adams)
2. Hetton Lyons Primary (Glenis Smith)

Best Soloist: Hetton Lyons Primary