The Whitburn Band continues to enjoy a 'Grand' feeling of success following their recent victory at the Spring Festival in Blackpool — one that saw the Scots return to the British Open for the first time since 2010.

Journey home

"To be back at the British Open means such a great deal,"Band President David Kinross told 4BR. "The journey home with the Grand Shield was memorable to say the least — although not too many of us were feeling too grand the next day!"

The contest is one of the toughest to win, and to become the first Scottish band to win it twice means so much too. With Dalmellington also winning the Senior Trophy, it was a superb day for Scottish banding. It also allows us to concentrate all our thoughts on the European Championships in Utrecht next year."

Fine form

Whitburn's victory carried on a fine run of form under the baton of professional conductor Prof Nicholas Childs — one which has seen the Black Dyke Director of Music lead them to success at the Scottish Open and Scottish Championships in recent months.

Dave added: "Nick has been incredible. From the Scottish Open success, then beating Major Peter Parkes' astonishing record of 'Area' wins at the Scottish Championships, to now leading us to success at Blackpool shows that he is the driving force behind our desire to go from strength to strength and become a force at the major championships."

Tartan feel

He also revealed that Whitburn and Dalmellington certainly brought a tartan feel to the post-contest celebrations at the Winter Gardens after the Spring Festival results.

"That was great. Scottish banding is a close-knit community that enjoys each other's success, so it was great to share a few drinks together."

The contest is one of the toughest to win, and to become the first Scottish band to win it twice means so much tooBand President, David Kinross

Fond farewell

Meanwhile, the band announced that Liam Orr, who has played in the cornet section over the past few years, is leaving the band to continue his musical studies in Manchester.

"Liam has been fantastic for us,"Dave said. "We wish him all the very best and we very much hope to see him at Symphony Hall as a Whitburn supporter."