The evening started with a performance by Stalybridge Old Band to get everybody in the mood.  With this being a fund raiser for the Heyrod Band Contest it was only fitting to have a Brass Band to get the proceedings underway.

The main event started with a selection of songs and poems that could only be described as typical ‘Buzz Hawkins’, reflecting on observations of typical life in Northern towns. A mention of old children’s games and sweets got the audience reminiscing of what could only be described as ‘better’ times.

Then he brought on the Bradshaw family.  We were treated to a glimpse into their slightly odd everyday life, listening to the antics of Billy and his father.

We were then surprised with a personal appearance by the one and only Billy Bradshaw, who sat on the stage and entertained the audience with a few tales of his day to day life - we’re just glad his Dad couldn’t hear him!

It costs in excess of £2500 to stage the Whit Friday Brass Band Contest.  The funds are usually raised from local businesses advertising in the program, sponsoring a trophy, then sales of programmes, a raffle on the day and a generous donation from our local councillors. In the current economic climate we understand that our usual local business support is not what it has been in the past, but they support the event as best they can and it is greatly appreciated. However the committee realise that we cannot rely on this alone so we are trying a few different ideas to raise funds, the Buzz Hawkins night being the first.

You may not realise it, but our little village of Heyrod is a major player in the Whit Friday contest - Heyrod gives the third highest prize fund in the whole competition, which is why we are a magnet for the top bands.

So from the Band Contest Committee and the residents of Heyrod it’s thank you to Buzz Hawkins and we hope to see him again soon, also thanks to the residents of Heyrod and their friends for their support.