The Flowers Band are once again West of England champions after beating off their nearest rivals to take the top spot at the regional finals in Torquay at the weekend. This means another trip to London’s Royal Albert Hall in October to compete in the national finals. Under the baton of Paul Holland, the band gave an outstanding performance of George Lloyd’s ‘English Heritage’ to claim their first regional crown since 2007 and their sixth title over all.

Adjudicator Stan Lippeatt spoke from the stage before the announcement of the results and told the packed auditorium at the Riviera Centre that there were four very good performances on the day, with the top two ‘clearly ahead’ of the pack. Flowers though he said were ‘clear’ winners. This is also the first major win with Flowers for conductor Paul Holland, who said he was ‘absolutely delighted’ with the performance and the result.

Congratulations also go to our friends at Camborne Town Band who finished in second place and also qualify for the London finals.

1. Flowers (Paul Holland), 7*

2. Camborne Town (Ian Porthouse), 4*

3. Woodfalls (Professor Nicholas Childs), 1

4. Mount Charles (Phillip McCann), 10

5. St Dennis (Philip Harper), 2

6. Lydbrook (Tom Brevic), 6

7. Sherborne Town (Paul Cosh), 9

8. Helston Town (John Hitchins), 3

9. Poole Borough (Phil Randell), 8

10. Yeovil Town (Kevin Robbins), 5

*Top 2 bands qualify for the Finals