Cockerton Prize Silver claimed victory at the Durham Festival of Brass held at East Durham College in Peterlee on the weekend.

Their performance of Edward Gregson's 'Connotations' under MD Andy Hunter caught the ear of adjudicator Stan Lippeatt to secure their first victory at the long running event.

Durham Miners' Association was runner-up thanks to their rendition of 'Albinus Variations', with GT Group Band's 'Trittico' in third.

Delighted

Reflecting on their success the new champion said: "We're delighted that against stiff opposition out performance of 'Connotations' brought us victory but also the prizes for best euphonium, basses, principal cornet, soprano and conductor!

It was a fantastic day out and our thanks go to all at DCBBA for the hard work that has gone into making this annual event such a special day in the North East's brass banding calendar."

Cockerton also swept up the prizes for Best Principal Cornet, Basses, Euphonium and Soprano, whilst Durham picked up the awards for trombones, middle band and percussion.

Houghton Area Youth Band showed their emerging talents with a fine rendition of 'Indian Summer'.

Result:

Adjudicator: Stan Lippeatt

1. Cockerton Prize Silver (Andy Hunter)
2. Durham Miners' Association Brass (Stuart Gray)
3. GT Group Band Peterlee (Gareth Sykes)
4. Trimdon Brass (Andrew Hall)
5. Billingham Silver (GarryHarvey)
6. Craghead Band (Stephen Goddard)
7. Backworth Colliery (Chris Jarvis)
8. Houghton Area Youth Band (Glenis Smith)

Best Youth Band: Houghton Area Youth
Best Fourth Section Band: Billingham Silver
Best Third Section Band: Trimdon Concert
Best Second Section Band: Durham Miners Association

Best Euphonium: Elizabeth Thompson (Cockerton Silver)
Best Soprano: Beth Marston (Cockerton Silver)
Best Bass Section: Cockerton Silver Band
Best Trombone Section: Durham Miners Association
Best Middle Band: Durham Miners Association
Best Principal Cornet: Ian Robinson (Cockerton Silver)
Best Percussion: Durham Miners Association