Abbey Brass Band members, left to right, Malcolm Ross, Julien Orsinger, Keith Merriman, Natasha Strange and James Ross practise in Abingdon ahead of their forthcoming competition in Oldham. Picture: OX52279 Ben Mostyn
ABINGDON’S top brass are off to a 128-year-old marching band contest today.
Armed with trumpets and horns Abbey Brass Band is to compete in the Saddleworth & District Whit Friday Brass Band Contests.
The annual event began in 1884 and attracts more than 100 bands from across the country.
Trombone player Keith Merriman said: “It’s the first time we have been there together as a band. Everyone is really excited about it now.
“It’s such a big event in the brass band community. It’s the atmosphere and the friendliness and competitiveness as well. It is just really lively.”
There are more than 50 musicians in the town group and about 30 of the main band are travelling up for the competition.
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