Police on march to beat band trouble

THE woman police commander masterminding security at today’s massive Saddleworth Whit Friday celebrations will have a no-tolerance attitude to troublemakers.

Thousands of families and tourists are expected to throng the villages for the “greatest free show on earth” — the spectacular Whit Friday Brass Band Contests, which run from mid-afternoon well into the night.

Chief Inspector Jo Marshall said: “As police commander for this event my message is we want people to come and enjoy themselves, have fun and watch the contests. Those intent on spoiling it for others by drinking to excess and behaving in an anti-social way should know we have a significant police operation in place. My officers will deal positively with those who behave this way. We have been working hard to ensure a fun and safe event for all.”

Organisers expect the warm weather to bring thousands of people out to enjoy the contests across 11 villages and further afield.

The legendary Black Dyke and Brighouse and Rastrick bands will join the circuit and this year the Army will parade a military brass band for the first time, which will appear alongside other first-timers Neo Brass from Japan and other bands from the continent and UK.

Signposted road closures and diversions will be in operation across Saddleworth throughout the event.