30 years ago this year the 144th British Open title was won in memorable fashion by the Marple Band.

Not only was it their first, and to date, only Open success, but it also came at a venue that was only used the once too — Bridgewater Hall in Manchester — and took place even before the it was officially opened.

The had been a top-six prize winner in previous years, but on this occasion directed by Garry Cutt, Marple's their performance of Bram Gay's arrangement of Elgar's 'Severn Suite' finally saw them take the title and iconic Gold Shield — and all as the final band to play on the day.

Special article

Their achievement has now been marked by a special article written for the Bridgewater Hall's website with memories of the day from Garry Cutt and band members Paul Beetham, Ruth Groves and Lucy Cutt.

There is also a lovely reminder of just what it meant to the late Eileen Murphy who as the proudest Band Secretary in the world on the day was presented with the Gold Shield on behalf of the band on stage.

To read:

https://www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk/behind-the-music/british-open-brass-band-1996/

Tickets and Live Stream

Tickets for the 2026 British Open are available at:
https://bmusic.co.uk/events/the-172nd-british-open-brass-band-championship

Live stream coverage is available at:
https://thebritishopen.net/the-british-open-event/