The UK contesting season kicks off this weekend at the Skegness Skyline Resort as bands and performers head for the Butlins Mineworkers Festival.

The event also incorporates the Butlins Youth Band Festival and the British Open Solo & Quartet Championships, whilst in addition to the competitions there is plenty of additional entertainment.

Concerts

2018 champions Flowers Band and 3BA from Germany take to the stage on Friday 11th along with 'Slide By Slide' featuring trombone virtuosos Gordon Campbell and Chris Dean.

Meanwhile on Saturday, the fabulous Louis Dowdeswell Big Band will be showcased, with Festival Director Steve Walker telling 4BR: "Louis is an amazing musician and his playing is going to astound everyone."

Also returning this year is legendary saxophonist Snake Davis and his band with their show 'Classic Sax Solos'. Hits to enjoy include 'Baker Street', 'Careless Whisper', 'Moving on Up', 'Search for the Hero' and Lisa Stansfield's 'Change'.

Oompah

There will also be a debut appearance for Deadbeat Brass, a 10-piece brass group who perform popular rock and dance floor classics brought to life with the upbeat grooves of a New Orleans street band, whilst the Jager Maestros Oompah Band features a fantastic mix of traditional Oompah songs and well known hits played in Bavarian style.

Boobs & Brass

Al this and the Sunday evening gala concert will see the final appearance of Boobs & Brass in what promises to be a spectacular farewell concert.

Steve Walker added: "We have been proud to have had a long association with Boobs & Brass over the years. Their achievements have been truly remarkable and we are pleased that they have chosen Butlins for their final bow. I'm sure that their final concert will provide a memorable and fitting climax to many years of incredible fundraising."

There is also so much to keep the family entertained at Butlins making the Festival so special in the banding calendarSteve Walker

Joe Loss

Bringing the weekend to a conclusion is the renowned Joe Loss Orchestra led by vocalist Todd Miller.

Steve added: "There is also so much to keep the family entertained at Butlins making the Festival so special in the banding calendar.

The Splash Waterworld is the ultimate family water park and admission is included in the price of the break and the Traditional Fairground is also open (weather permitting) and offers the perfect place to add a little bit of extra sparkle to your family break.

The new Pub & Kitchen will also enable the family to enjoy some time out over a refreshing drink, a lovely meal or a delicious treat. The menu is made up of delicious wholesome favourites that are loved by everyone. So you can also enjoy a stress-free Sunday with a fabulous Sunday roast."