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Just weeks after losing one of its founding members, Bedwas, Trethomas and Machen (BTM) Brass Band finished second place in the Welsh Regional Championships – securing their spot in the finals later this year.

Band conductor Jeff Hutcherson is the son of Keith Hutcherson, who passed away in February, just weeks before the band travelled to Swansea to compete in the regionals.

Jeff told Caerphilly Observer how he and the band, which first formed 52 years ago, used this emotion as motivation: “It’s been quite a difficult couple of months for us as a band, and for me personally.

“Dad had been there from the start, and it was very emotional for all of us when he passed away.”

Jeff said how he and the band played at his father’s funeral on March 6, just ten days before the competition on March 16.

He continued: “We really used the emotion of it all and performed brilliantly. We played for him.”

The brass band, which has more than 60 members, has now qualified for the National Brass Championships in Cheltenham this September.

Other impressive performances towards the end of 2023 meant the band has also been promoted to the top tier as of 2025.

“We’re in a really good position at the moment. We have a few competitions coming up, and our annual fundraiser at Bedwas Workmen’s Hall in June will help fund our tours.”

Jeff explained how for just a bus to Swansea, with equipment on board, cost the band £650.

More information about the band, and how to donate, can be found online.