BLAENAVON Town Band scooped first prize in the South East Wales Brass Band Association Championship.

On Saturday the band travelled to Treorchy to take part in the championship at the famous Park and Dare Theatre. The competition was the culmination of the 2008, South and West Wales Championship.

One of seven bands competing in section two, it performed Peter Grahams' Dimensions. Adjudicator Stan Lippeatt awarded the band first prize with 186 points, with Ynyshir Band second and Crosskeys Silver Band third.

Solo euphonium player and youth band tutor, Mr Evan Smith was awarded the Fred Western Memorial Trophy for the best instrumentalist in the section.

Because of its results in the other contests through the year the band was also declared the prestigious Champion Band of Wales in section two, securing promotion for the first time in its history to section one where it will compete locally in 2009.

Band Chairman, Mr Lynn Davies said, "This result is the culmination of what has been a fantastic year for the band where it qualified for the finals of the national brass band championships of Great Britain which were held in Harrogate, competed at the Welsh National Eisteddfod in Cardiff, took part in the BBC Coal House production and performed regularly in community events.

"To be declared Champion Band of Wales 2008 is a reflection on the commitment of our Members and Musical Director, Mr Lyndon Price who been with us less than a year.

"We would like to thank all our friends for their continued support, which is very much appreciated," said Lynn Davies Chairman.