Bands Strike up again for the Tameside Whit Friday Contests

IT’S Whit Friday on May 24, and yet again Tameside will be hosting the hugely popular brass band contests which are often billed as the greatest free show on earth.

The tradition dates back to the late 19th century, and this year the borough is hosting 10 events – one more than last year thanks to the addition of the new Hyde Central competition.

All the contests are organised by volunteer committees under the aegis of the Tameside Friends of Whit Friday.

To have a chance of being crowned champions, bands have to perform at six of the contests. As well as demanding proof of musical prowess, the evening also tests discipline, stamina and organisational skills.

A Tameside Council spokesman said: “The crowds that turn up year after year show that Whit Friday is one of the most popular events on the Tameside calendar.

“Of course we couldn’t stage this borough-wide musical celebration without the support of the Friends of Tameside Whit Friday Brass Band Committee, local businesses and an army of volunteers.

“We thank them for their help in organising what promises to be an evening to remember.”

Venues

Broadoak

Ashton Rugby Club, St Albans Avenue, Ashton, OL6 8TU – 4.30 to 11pm.

Carrbrook

Carr Rise, Carrbrook, SK15 3NY – 4 to 11pm

Denton

Denton Cricket Club, Egerton Street, M34 3PB – 4 to 11.45pm.

Droylsden

Bush Inn, Moorside Street, M43 7HL – 4 to 11.30pm.

Dukinfield Tame Valley

Tame Valley Hotel, Park Road, SK16 5LX – 4 to 11.15pm.

Heyrod

Village Hall, John Street, SK15 3BW – 4.30 to 11pm.

Hurst Village

Ashton United FC, Surrey Street, OL6 8DY – 4.30 to 10pm.

Hyde Central

Market Square, Market Street, SK14 1HL – 4 to 10pm

Mossley

Mossley FC, Seel Park, OL5 0ES – 4 to 11.45pm.

Stalybridge

New Stalybridge Labour Club, Acres Lane, SK15 2EG – 4.30 to 10.30pm.