‘Greatest free show’ is running short of brass

Tickled pink they’re back: Grotton is planning a warm welcome for one of the visiting bands, Northamptonshire's all-girl Boobs and Brass, in their distinctive pink jackets. The band dedicates its fund-raising for breast cancer and won the village contest deportment prize last year.

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THE organisers of Saddleworth’s “greatest free show on earth” have launched an appeal to find sponsorship funding for next year’s top prizes.

Bob Rodgers, chairman of the central committee which organises the legendary Saddleworth Whit Friday Brass Band Contests across 12 villages, is concerned some contests next year could be in jeopardy.

Mr Rodgers, who also is chairman of Delph Brass Band Contest, said: “Although all the prize money is in place for this year, the credit crunch has left a big dent in sponsorship of major category prizes next year.

“It we don’t get some kind-hearted sponsors on board, bands could face real hardship. The only way we could fund the prizes would be to consider a levy of hundreds of pounds on each contest.”

He added: “It could have a big impact on the contests themselves because bands do like to win good prizes in addition to providing a great day out for the public,” he added. “I am hoping there are some community benefactors willing to help with funding. We need about £7,000 which is the icing on the cake for the contests which each village fund themselves.”

Last year, more than 130 bands from across the UK took part in the contests which take place again this Friday.

Saddleworth villages are bracing themselves for an influx of thousands of visitors who head for their favourite spots to watch the bands. This year, famous Black Dyke band will be on the circuit and, overall, more than £30,000 in prize money is up for grabs on the day.

Diggle will host its first-ever contest and their newly-formed contest committee, supported by dedicated locals, are confident of a big turnout to the event which will be staged on a purpose-built band stand.

Potential sponsors for next year’s contest prizes, should contact Bob Rodgers on: 01457-874354.




Sound advice



MOTORISTS are asked to be patient as Saddleworth gears up for an action packed weekend of brass bands and beer. Friday sees the Whit Walks and Band Contest take over roads in Uppermill, Delph, Dobcross, Greenfield, Friezland, Lydgate, Grotton, Scouthead, Lees, Denshaw, Greenacres and Diggle.



The Saddleworth Beer Walk takes place the day after and will also cause severe congestion.

Insp Danny Milovanovic of Saddleworth and Lees policing team said: “There will be many road blocks being put up and taken down. We will be doing our best to keep the traffic flowing but if your journey is not essential, drivers would be best to stay away.”