Littleborough Brass Band triumphs again at Holme Valley contest

Tuesday, 29 April 2025 13:13

By David Murphy

Littleborough Brass Band has successfully defended its title at the 2025 Holme Valley Brass Band Contest, held in Holmfirth on Sunday 27 April.

Under the baton of musical director Ashley Higgins, the band impressed the adjudicators with a performance described as one of "real merit with control and drama" as they delivered the set test piece, I, Daedalus by composer Andrea Price. They were awarded first place in Section C, repeating their success from 2024.

Their achievements on the day did not end there. The band also received the 'Best Hymn' award for their well-crafted rendition of the traditional hymn tune Nicaea.

This latest victory continues an impressive run for the Littleborough-based group. Earlier this year, they secured qualification for the National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain, due to take place in September. Last year they finished in an impressive fourth place in the 4th Section of the national finals and, following consistently strong results at the North West Regional Championships, they will be promoted to the 3rd Section from January 2026.

Ashley Higgins said: "The band has worked tremendously hard, and I am incredibly proud of their dedication. Retaining our title at Holme Valley is a fantastic achievement."

Littleborough Brass Band will next perform in their home town with a free outdoor concert at Hare Hill Park on Sunday 18 May, starting at 3pm. Audiences can expect an afternoon of popular favourites and brass band classics.

For more information about the band or to get involved, visit www.littleboroughband.co.uk.

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