Whit Friday 2026

Building on Contest Successes

Following our success bringing home some glassware already this year, the band took to the road on Friday 29th May for the iconic Whit Friday contests. Competing in the Third Section this year, the band continued the momentum tackling 11 contests throughout the day. Flying back from across the pond, Adam Delbridge-Smith returned as guest Musical Director with incredible energy and focus - achieving incredible results.

The band at Heyrod on Whit Friday with guest musical director Adam Delbridge-Smith

Highlights of the Day: Best Third Section Band in Three Contests and Overall 3rd

The band are thrilled with our results, achieving Best Third Section Band in 3 contests in Tameside, and Overall 3rd at Friezland in Saddleworth! These victories are a fantastic testament to the hard work and dedication of every single band member, especially without a permanent Musical Director.

Tameside

Starting in Tameside, the band competed in eight contests. Each location was warm and welcoming, and we are thrilled with our performances. Here is a quick rundown of our positions:

Contest Location	Overall Position	Position out of 3rd Section Bands
Top Mossley	42	3
Hurst Village	24	2
Broad Oak	25	3
Droylsden	24	4
Dukinfield Tame Valley	28	3
Stalybridge Celtic	19	1
Stalybridge Labour Club	12	1
Heyrod	23	1

Band playing at Stalybridge Celtic F.C.

Saddleworth

Heading over to Saddleworth, where the villages were buzzing with crowds lining the street to create an unforgettable atmosphere. A phenomenal podium finish in Friezland and closing the night off at Greenfield at midnight topped the band off with true Whit Friday spirit.

Contest Location	Overall Position	Position out of 3rd Section Bands
Friezland	3	2
Greenfield	35	2

A Huge Thank You!

A massive thank you is owed to everyone who made the day possible. Particular thanks goes to Dave Ashworth, who has been brilliantly training the band ready for Whit Friday.

Our amazing volunteers and helpers made the day run like clockwork, especially Jason (our runner) and Jen Tucker (librarian and resident photographer). We also want to give a huge shout-out to Selwyns Travel for their excellent driving and keeping us on schedule all day long.

Become a Supporter today!

Thank you to everyone who came out to support us! If you want to continue to support our band, consider becoming a supporter today. For a small yearly donation, you will get exclusive access to our media gallery where you can find more photos and videos from our amazing day at Whit Friday and other events. Your support helps us to continue making music and competing at a high level.

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The Test March

The Elephant, James Ord Hume.

The Walking March

Old Comrades, Carl Teike arr. Adam Delbridge-Smith.