Camborne double marks high-quality event at Torquay

by Robert Richardson

The West of England Regional Championships in Torquay are always a joy to visit. A good standard of bands in every section, extremely helpful administrative staff and a friendly atmosphere amongst competitors ensures that this region is one in which brass bands will remain strong for generations to come. With some great choices for test-pieces, the weekend was always going to see plenty of good playing and, despite some claims that certain pieces are unsuitable for the section to which they have been assigned, bands in every section here tackled their respective tests with great merit and fine performances were given over both days of contesting.

One feature of this part of the country is the strength visible throughout each section, particularly in the lower levels of the contest. In many bands, especially in the 3rd and 4th sections, the playing members are either almost entirely composed of youngsters or have a 50/50 mix of youth and experience. Additionally, the younger members often take solo or assistant principal positions, which is a good omen for future prosperity.