As part of the Whit Friday support project from The British Bandsman there will be a number of donations to both Saddleworth and Tameside from the sale of 2 new marches that are being released next week by Pennine Music Publishing, ‘The Volunteer’ for higher section bands and ‘Fort Drake’ for lower section bands, these were the winners of The British Bandsman ‘Whit Friday March Composition Contest’.

Add to that the very kind donation from Foden's Band of their fee to record the winning Marches and to add more to the project The Bandsman will also pay £2 for every band that plays at 6 or more contests on either circuit on June 2nd 2023. With big numbers expected we hope this will be a healthy number and another donation that helps to make the following years contest possible.

Playing at the Whit Friday contests is a highlight of the year for many, it is only possible because of the wonderful work of all the volunteers, both Saddleworth and Tamside need financial help to keep going each year and we hope this small contribution from The Bandsman, Foden’s and Pennine Music will be of help.