Support quality, independent, local journalism…that matters

From just £1 a month you can help fund our work – and use our website without adverts. Become a member today

Markham and District Band have earned the chance to represent Wales on the national stage.

The band won the Second Section Welsh Regional Brass Band Contest in Swansea on March 14, securing their place at the prestigious National Brass Band Finals in York this September.

They impressed the adjudicators by delivering a standout performance of the demanding test piece 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, taking first place in the competition.

The Blackwood Showfield-based band’s euphonium players of Phil Lucas and Allen Coates also took home the Best Instrumentalist prize.

The success comes following months of preparation and rehearsals, which will continue as the band prepares for its first appearance at the National Brass Band Finals for more than two decades.

It is also the band’s first Welsh Regional title since 1984, when Markham won the Third Section contest.

Gary Davies, the band’s musical director, said: “I’m incredibly proud of the band. Everyone has worked so hard in rehearsals over the past few months and to see that effort recognised with a win is fantastic.

“Qualifying for the national finals is a huge achievement and it means a great deal to represent Wales at this level.”

He added: “Markham has a strong banding tradition and we’re excited to take the music to York and do our community proud.”

As well as entering competitions, the band regularly performs at concerts, community events and more throughout the year.

It also runs a junior band programme aiming to inspire the next generation of musicians.