British Open Solo and Quartet to continue at Butlins

Butlins are pleased to continue their sponsorship of the famous British Open Solo & Quartet Championships of Great Britain. With the official permission of British Open contest, organisers Martin and Karyn Mortimer, the rejuvenated event will be held to coincide with the 2020 Butlins Brass Band Festival at the Skegness Resort.

Butlins Contest Advisor Stan Lippeatt said: "We were honoured to be able to reinstate such a prestigious event, one that has such a remarkable history since it was founded by Harry Mortimer CBE. We're also excited to be able to develop its future and look forward to welcoming players from around the banding world."

The British Open Senior Solo Champion will claim a £500 first prize, whilst generous Butlins sponsorship will also see significant awards made to the champion in each of the four other categories. A spokesperson for the British Open said "We are delighted that such an important event is continuing in the banding calendar, and that it is being so generously supported by Butlins”.

Over the decades some of the most famous names in the banding world have been crowned British Open champion such as Lyndon Baglin, James Shepherd, James Watson and Phillip McCann, all the way through to Peter Roberts, David King and Sheona White. 

Joining this legendary list as Solo Champion of Great Britain 2019 was Jef Vermeiren of Brass Band Heist in Belgium. Jef was also the last person to claim the accolade back in 2009. 

There will be a first prize of £300 to the Intermediate Slow Melody winner (under 17), with £200 to the Junior Slow Melody winner (under 12), and the newly crowned Junior Quartet (under 17). The Senior Quartet victor will receive £500, with each category also carrying the additional honour of being proclaimed British Open champion.

Competitors interested in The Junior Slow Melody, Intermediate Slow Melody, Junior Quartet, Senior Solo and Senior Quartet Championships should contact Judith Beckett cuckoo1@uwclub.net for more information.

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