Runners up at Stevenage =National Finals and Promotion!
Some of the band enjoying some well earned refreshment after the announcement of the results!
The East of England Co-op Band delivered a superb performance at the London & Southern Counties Regional Brass Band Championships, securing an outstanding second place in the First Section against a strong field of 14 bands.
Performing “Variations on Was Lebet” by Andrew Wainwright, the band impressed adjudicators Steven Mead and David Hirst with a musical and confident performance, earning high praise in a closely contested section.
This excellent result not only reflects the band’s continued musical progress, but also secures an invitation to represent the region at the First Section National Finals in York this September. The band will be joined by section winners Fulham Brass Band in what promises to be a highly competitive national event.
In addition, the result confirms a major milestone for the band’s future: promotion back to the Championship Section from 2027. East of England Co-op Band will compete at the highest level alongside fellow promoted band Thundersley, who finished fourth today.
Band Chairman Keith Moye expressed his pride and excitement following the announcement:
“We are absolutely delighted with this result. To come second in such a competitive field is a fantastic achievement for everyone involved. I would like to place on record our sincere thanks to our Musical Director, Mark Ager, for his dedication, leadership and musical vision, which have been central to this success. We are also extremely grateful to Philip Harper for delivering an inspiring masterclass that gave the band an extra edge in our preparation.
Most importantly, this result reflects the hard work, commitment and team spirit of all our players. I am over the moon for the band, and we are all hugely excited to be heading back to the National Finals in York — our first appearance there since 2022. We look forward to representing the region and giving the best account of ourselves on the national stage.”
Before turning their focus to the National Finals, the band has a busy and exciting programme of events ahead. This includes their upcoming Charity Concert in aid of the YMCA in Norwich on 9th May, followed by their much-anticipated appearance at the Whit Friday Marches competitions later in the month. The band will then continue their summer season with concerts in Woodbridge and Bredfield.
With momentum firmly on their side, the East of England Co-op Band look ahead with confidence to both a packed summer schedule and their return to the national stage in September.
