The North of England Regional Championships will once again be supported by Geneva Instruments.

The event which will take place on the 17th/18th March, in the Gala Theatre Durham, and the Regional Committee has expressed its delight that the company will, in their words, "provide some much needed sustainability."

Welcome boost

Regional Secretary Tony Griffiths told 4BR: "Geneva Instruments support is a welcome boost for our contest and we look forward to developing this strong professional relationship."

He went on: "Banding in the North of England remains strong while our future development and sustainability is under scrutiny. This is where the support from a major international company like Geneva Instruments is such a welcome boost.

It enables us to look forward with some confidence, both in the North of England and within the larger family of the National Brass Band Championships."

The Geneva Instruments Challenge Cup will once again be presented to Championship Section winning band, whilst company founder Tim Oldroyd believes that the decision shows Geneva's continued commitment both to the event and to the brass band movement at all levels in the North of England.

Banding in the North of England remains strong while our future development and sustainability is under scrutiny. This is where the support from a major international company like Geneva Instruments is such a welcome boostTony Griffiths

Special moments

He commented: "I'm delighted that we are able to work with Tony and the team. The North of England Brass Band Championships is my local contest and I have enjoyed many special moments personally at it over the years.

Already being associated with many of the bands competing over the weekend will without doubt see our trade stand busy.

UK Sales Director, Robin Winspear and all Geneva Instruments team offer a warm welcome to friends old and new on the weekend."