Youth band hits high notes with hat-trick of top wins

Youth Brass 2000 have achieved a hat-trick of competition wins

The band won the competition in Skegness and followed up that victory with a win at the British Open Youth Brass Band Contest in Preston, Lancashire, before earlier this month taking the top prize at the National Entertainment Champions competition in Blackpool.

Don Collins, band chairman, said: “Two in three major national contests is unprecedented - and all in just a five-week period is amazing.

“It is a result of incredible hard work from this very talented young group of musicians.

“I must also thank the amazing support of the committee and parents who have found themselves flat out in preparation for such a busy schedule.”

Musical director Chris Jeans said he had dreamt of achieving “The Grand Slam” for years.

Youth Brass 2000 are now in rehearsal for the next challenge, to defend their title of National Champion Youth Band of Great Britain, a title they won in 2014 and 2015,

At the end of April they travel to Lille in France to represent England in the European Brass Band Championships.

The band will reprise their Blackpool performance at the Cube Theatre in Corby on March 20 with an added Scottish twist.

The band rehearse at the village hall in Wilbarston and are always happy to welcome newcomers. Contact band chairman Don Collins on 07860 525352 or visit www.youthbrass2000.com.