Poulton-le-Fylde Band has enjoyed a great start to the 2019 season with victory in the Second Section of the Brass at the Guild contest in Preston (above).

Finding themselves relegated after a run of 15 years in either the Championship or First Section, the band was keen to make its mark, and buoyed by new signings and talented players promoted from their youth band they put in a great deal of work over the festive season to ensure they were ready for their first test of the year.

Confidence boost

Under the baton of talented RNCM PhD student Alexander Webb, the band certainly did that and more — catching the ear of adjudicator Dave Lea in the process to secure the £400 first prize and boost their confidence hugely ahead of their Area challenge in Blackpool in a few weeks time.

Rehearsals with Alex Webb are extremely well organised and enjoyable, resulting in a great atmosphere around the stands which undoubtedly gave us that extra lift at PrestonBand Chairman, Andy Moore

Extra lift

Band Chairman, Andy Moore told 4BR: "We have used our new status to rebuild and approach the contesting season with new energy.

Rehearsals with Alex Webb are extremely well organised and enjoyable, resulting in a great atmosphere around the stands which undoubtedly gave us that extra lift at Preston.

We are now looking forward to the Area contest, and hope to put together another performance that we are proud of."