Blackburn and Darwen Band, the newly crowned First Section Butlins Champions announce the exciting news of their inclusion in the World Music Contest in Kerkrade in July.

First for the band

This is a first for the band, and following on from their Butlins triumph puts the seal on some exciting plans for the year.

Commenting on their selection in the World Championships, Chairman Martin Gernon was understandably excited at the prospect.

This is a major coup for the band and marks the incredible progress made under Nick Sheppard and the rest of the band members, and is a great reward for the hard work put in over the last 18 monthsMartin Gernon

'Last year, whilst being an excellent development year for the band, we didn't quite take full advantage of several opportunities for major success. With Butlins now well and truly in the bag, and the band looking forward to good showings at the forthcoming Area and Senior Trophy, the opportunity to return to the UK in July as World Champions, First section, is incredible'.

Martin continues, 'We believe, although we have not had final confirmation that we are the only first section band from the UK to have been included in this prestigious line up, that includes bands from all over the world.

This is a major coup for the band and marks the incredible progress made under Nick Sheppard and the rest of the band members, and is a great reward for the hard work put in over the last 18 months'.

New PLC piece

The band will perform a new set piece work, Equilibrium by Paul Lovatt Cooper, as well as their own choice test piece, both performed back to back on Saturday 11th July.