The Tameside Whit Friday Brass Band Contest is upon us once again, and I’m delighted, as the Civic Mayor of Tameside to welcome you to what I’m sure will be an exciting evening of brass band music.  We’re extremely proud of the brass band tradition that exists within Tameside – a tradition that not only survives but which flourishes and grows year on year.

The Whit Friday Brass Band Contest first began in 1884 in the towns of Mossley, Stalybridge and Uppermill.  Now in its 20th year, this year’s contest will once again be an unrivalled evening of musical entertainment that provides the opportunity to hear some of Britain’s finest brass bands.

This year we’re delighted to welcome Aldwinians Rugby Union Football Club on to the Whit Friday circuit and I wish them every success with their return this year.

I would like to extend my personal thanks and congratulations to all eleven Tameside contests for their continued hard work and dedication.  The time and effort given by the individual contest committees is a real achievement and without them the event wouldn’t happen at all.

Finally, good luck to all the competing bands.  I look forward to welcoming you all to Tameside and to hearing you perform.