Whit Friday Band Contest on the 5th of June 2009 was headlined by the brass band media as ‘Wet Friday Band Contest’. It is rumoured that this had been the worst weather since 1972!
However, the band started rehearsal in the home of our first baritone player at Diggle at 3.00 pm and before the first note of ‘O.R.B’ was played the band had to retreat to the comfort of the conservatory as the rain started!
The band played first at the inaugural contest at Diggle, this was to be the only contest that it did not rain. Dobcross was next and the band were able to alight from the bus and straight on, this was sheer luck and not to be repeated again. Then followed Delph, the rain was intense which had put many spectators off. Heading north to Denshaw with the short march and rain getting heavier the band were ‘Highest placed 2nd Section Band’. Greenacres, followed by Lees, 2nd in the 2nd Section in both of these contests. Mention must be made though of the 'Lady supporters of the band’ marching in front of the band with a huge banner and the locals braving the appalling weather to cheer on 'their band’ - this was without doubt the best performance of the ‘Royal Trophy‘ march.
With the band on a high we headed to Grotton, after a long wait on the bus, we were awarded our best results of the night 3rd overall.
Lydgate was next and the rain was not only heavier but was now colder. After avoiding the queue at Greenfield, we headed to Scouthead ~ our ninth village, not many bands achieved nine contests in Saddleworth. The percussion section decided that the weather was now heavier so set the march speed at 120! To the band’s credit they played every note. On the double tap at the end of the march the band then ran, only to be confronted by Fodens waddling through the mud of the field, so we duly followed and were awarded 2nd in 2nd Section.
Special mention must be given to the excellent playing of Toni Heywood on principal cornet and MD John Collins for cajoling the best out of the band in the appalling weather conditions. The evening was rounded off by meat and potato pie at our ‘home’ ~ the Lees Royal British Legion Club.