Band wins its first national trophies

The 11 members of the band of TS Montrose beat more experienced rivals to claim the crown of the overall winners of their class in the Nautical Training Corps’ national band contest.

It was one of four triumphs at the event.

The successes came after the band won the novice class in its first entry into the competition last year.

Garry Price, TS Montrose’s chairman, said the latest wins were a stunning achievement for such a young unit.

“The competition this year was much stiffer and from units that have had bands playing for many years, unlike ours which is barely two years old.

“Our commanding officer, Yvonne Booker, is immensely proud of what the cadets have achieved in just two years.

“In fact, some of the cadets two years ago didn’t even know how to play any form of musical instrument. So, in a very short time, they have come on in leaps and bounds.

“It’s all down to the funding they have received from Aldwick Parish Council.

“Without their support, the local youth would not have been able to achieve such as they have in such a short time.”

The top prize was collected by one of the unit’s senior cadets, Callum Mackay, from the 
patron of the Nautical Training Corps, Rear Admiral John Lippiett.

The other trophies which were won by the triumphant band members were for the best wind instrument, the best overall percussion and the commodore’s award for endurance.