Sandhurst Silver achieved two firsts at the London & Southern Counties regional qualifiers last weekend, making 2009 a year to remember so far.

101 year history

Their runners up place in the First Section not only saw them win through to Harrogate at this level for the first time, but also sees them gain promotion to the Championship Section for the first time in their 101 year history.

Elated

Chairman Andy Pulford told 4BR: "The Band as a whole is elated with their performance and everyone is looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead. We are also relishing the opportunity to represent our region at the National Finals and to take our place next year in the Championship Section."

We are also relishing the opportunity to represent our region at the National Finals and to take our place next year in the Championship SectionAndy Pulford

Fantastic way

He added: "This is a fantastic way to follow up our Centenary celebrations last year. Full credit goes to our MD Ian McElligott and all the players who worked so hard to achieve this."

It was also a double celebration for Bb Bass player Chris Cole who, as MD of Yiewsley and West Drayton Band, finished second with both bands. "I still can't believe the results," he commented. "What a weekend!"