The Abergavenny Borough Band has returned home after a busy weekend at a renowned brass band festival in Yorkshire.

Whit Friday is a well‑known brass band festival in Saddleworth, involving marches and contests across a number of local villages. The local charity’s tour began with the band travelling north and settling into Yorkshire before an evening visit to the world‑famous Black Dyke Band, where members experienced the band’s rehearsal environment and had the opportunity to hear them perform.

On Friday, the band took part in the Whit Friday traditions, beginning with the Service of Witness in Denshaw before heading into a full afternoon of contests across Saddleworth. The band performed at multiple locations, including Dobcross, Delph, Denshaw, Southend, Grotton and Lydgate, performing to enthusiastic audiences throughout the day.

A memorable highlight saw an impromptu rendition of the Welsh National Anthem, sparked by a member of the public, which was warmly received and reflected the band’s strong identity while on tour.

On Saturday, the band enjoyed time in Haworth, in the heart of Brontë Country, before performing an evening concert at Boarshurst Band Club. The performance featured a varied and lively programme, including impromptu audience participation. The weekend concluded with the band taking part in the Black Dyke Festival at Huddersfield Town Hall.

Members joined instrumental masterclasses led by leading players before performing as part of the massed bands in the gala concert, rounding off the tour in an iconic venue.

A spokesperson for Abergavenny Borough Band said: “This has been an incredible weekend for the band. From Whit Friday through to the festival concert, there have been so many highlights. It’s a fantastic opportunity to perform, learn and spend time together, and we are extremely proud of everyone involved.”

The band would like to thank all organisers, hosts and audiences who supported them throughout the weekend.Abergavenny Borough Band is a registered charity and is always keen to welcome new musicians.

The true origins of Abergavenny's town band lie shrouded in mystery, but what is know that there was certainly a band in the town before 1884. In fact, the Abergavenny Chronicle reports on the Band participating in a procession through the town and up the Sugar Loaf Mountain playing from a horse drawn "Break" on Whit, on Monday June 6 1881.

The oldest record dates back to 1884, when a Mr. Thomas Hardy, formerly of the Hussars took over the job of directing the then Abergavenny town band.

Today, the band continues to grow while remaining one of the town’s most important community assets. Musicians may also be able to join the ensemble themselves soon. They’re looking for a new solo trombone player!

Rehearsals take place every Tuesday and Thursday between 6.30pm and 8.45pm at the town’s band room, NP7 5DU.

Those interested should get in touch with the group via social media.