Scottish bands ready for Brass Band Finals this Autumn

The Battle of Brass Heats Up Ahead of Upcoming UK National Finals

Around 500 bands from across the UK have been taking part in regional heats, all leading up to two final events this autumn with the National Champion Band of Great Britain to be crowned at the Royal Albert Hall

Sections 1-4 National Finals, Saturday 13 – Sunday 14th, Cheltenham RacecourseChampionship Section National Final, Saturday 11th October, Royal Albert Hall, 10am

The culmination of the brass band season is fast approaching as the UK’s top ensembles prepare to compete in two prestigious finals this September and October. Bands from across the country will go head-to-head in a thrilling contest for divisional titles, promotion and the coveted Challenge Trophy – awarded to the band crowned National Champion Band of Great Britain.

Often described as the brass banding equivalent of the Football League, the competition began earlier this year with regional qualifiers involving around 500 bands across eight UK regions: London & the Southern Counties, Midlands, North of England, North West, Scotland, Wales, West of England, and Yorkshire.

Each region is divided into five competitive sections — the Championship Section and Sections 1 – 4. From these regional “heats,” 94 bands have earned a place in one of two national finals; the Sections 1–4 Finals which will take place in Cheltenham this September, where bands will vie for divisional titles and promotion within the structure and the Championship Section Final at the Royal Albert Hall, where the top 19 Championship bands will compete for the prestigious National Challenge Trophy and the title of National Champion Band of Great Britain 2025.

At October’s prestigious Royal Albert Hall final, each band will perform this year’s chosen work Edward Gregson’s Symphony in two movements.

The winner will be decided by three adjudicators who are sealed in a box in the auditorium where they can hear the music but can’t see the bands on stage.

The competition is judged this way to preserve its integrity and to put less pressure on the adjudicators. There is also a prize for the Most Outstanding Player.

Edward Gregson said: “I’m honoured that the National Brass Band Championships have selected my Symphony in two movements as the set work for this year’s prestigious competition at the Royal Albert Hall.

“Although I’ve previously received commissions for this event, this time the panel chose a piece I originally composed in 2012 for two of the UK’s National Youth Bands—music that carries youthful energy, rhythmic vitality, and lyrical expressiveness.

“It’s a bold and contemporary choice, drawing on symphonic traditions from Beethoven to Stravinsky and Prokofiev, while also nodding to the English pastoral style of Vaughan Williams.

“Unlike more programmatic works previously featured, this score demands precision, detail, and stylistic versatility from both conductors and players—combining symphonic brass with the warmth of traditional brass band sound.

“Having 19 of the UK’s finest bands prepare this piece is a great privilege, and I look forward to hearing the results on the day.’’

The National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain is one of the highlights of the UK’s banding calendar. 

Beginning in 1900, the event in its current format started in 1945 at the Royal Albert Hall, making this year the eightieth anniversary of the competition being held at the venue.

The event blends fierce competition with camaraderie as many long-lasting friendships and relationships have been formed over the years and many musicians have gone on to perform at the highest levels in the wider musical world.

The most successful band in the competition’s history is West Yorkshire’s the Black Dyke Band with 24 titles, and this year’s defending champions is the Flowers Band from the West of England.

The Results Ceremony will be preceded by a Gala Concert where the current National Youth Brass Band champions Northamptonshire’s Youth Brass 2000 will be the featured artist. 

They will be joined by an array of former members who have gone on to perform at the very top level including Jordan Ashman (BBC Young Musician of the Year 2022), Siobhan Edwards (Principal Tenor Horn, Black Dyke Band) and Mathew Gee (Principal Trombone, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra) as well as current players from top British bands including Cory, Black Dyke – who were featured in the Sky Arts documentary Battle of the Bands in 2019 — and Grimethorpe Colliery, made famous by the film Brassed Off and students from the UK’s top conservatoires, including Royal Academy of Music (RAM), Royal College of Music (RCM), Royal Birmingham Conservatoire (RBC), and Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM).

The Gala Concert has in the past featured incredible musicians such as international euphoniumist David Childs Official, LSO Brass (London Symphony Orchestra), The Bands of HM Royal Marines, The Royal Air Force Squadronaires (RAF Music) Black Dyke Band, Cory Band, Mnozil Brass, Mike Lovatt accompanied by the Whitburn Band and many more.

There is a 25% discount for students and a special offer on gala concert only tickets.

Philip Morris, Managing Director, Kapitol Promotions said: “We are thrilled to return once again to London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall for our flagship event – a true celebration of brass banding at its finest.

“This year is of special significance as we mark the 80th anniversary of the first National Final held at the RAH in its current format. Audiences can look forward to outstanding performances of Edward Gregson’s Symphony in two movements – the composer’s own favourite work for brass band.

“Adding to the occasion, the Gala Concert will feature the current National Youth Champions of Great Britain, Youth Brass 2000, together with a host of exciting alumni as their special guests’’

Kapitol Promotions Ltd is a live music events company based in Penarth (South Wales) and is the current owner and promoter of the National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain.

Kapitol Festivals is the other arm of the company and upcoming events include The Armed Man at Brangwyn Hall on 19 Oct 2025 with Sir Karl Jenkins, and RWCMD Festive Brass on 12 Dec 2025 featuring the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama’s Brass Band at the Wales Millennium Centre.

Instagram @nbbc_gb | Facebook NationalChampionships | #finals2025 | www.nationalbrassbandchampionships.com

Listings information

Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, South Kensington, SW7 2AP

Saturday, 10am

£79 – 42.70 | https://www.royalalberthall.com/tickets/events/2025/brass-band-championships | 020 7589 8212

Supported by The Nicola Morris Trust, Brass Band World Magazine and Ev-Entz

Give Me Some Credit: Some free tickets still available

FRIDAY 22nd AUGUST at SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT – FREE EVENT

There are still some free tickets available for Friday’s ‘Give Me Some Credit’ exhibition at @ScotParl#FestivalofPolitics.

https://festivalofpolitics.citizenticket.co.uk/events/festival-of-politics/give-me-some-credit/

Appeal for information following incidents of anti-social behaviour involving dirt bikes in Edinburgh

Officers in Edinburgh are appealing for information following a number of a calls regarding the dangerous use of dirt bikes in Edinburgh.

Over the course of Sunday, 17 August, 2025, multiple reports were received of the bikes being ridden in a reckless and in an anti-social manner in the areas of Calders, Juniper Green, Lanark Road, Broomhouse and Sighthill.

Sergeant Gillian Watson said: “The reckless use of dirt bikes not only endangers those riding them, but also members of the public.

“We have already seized four bikes and our enquiries are ongoing. We are keen to trace all of those who were riding in this dangerous manner.

“I would appeal to anyone who may have private CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage, or who knows where these bikes are being stored, to contact us as soon as possible.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 2699 of Sunday, 17 August, 2025.

Unearthed: The Power of Gardening Quiz at Leith Library tomorrow

TUESDAY 19TH AUGUST 6.30pm at LEITH LIBRARY

Special event coming soon … Unearthed: The Power of Gardening – Quiz!

Celebrating the @lkn_libraries display we are currently hosting, which explores the transformative power of gardening.

#Unearthed

#BritishLibrary

#LivingKnowledgeNetwork

#Gardening

#Sustainability

#Community

Public urged to check tradespeople’s ID after notorious conman jailed

Scotland’s largest construction trade association, SELECT, has urged the public to always check identification before allowing tradespeople into their home following the jailing of a serial fraudster who posed as an electrician to target the elderly.

The campaigning body issued the reminder after 64-year-old Robert Markward was last week sentenced to nine years in prison for a string of crimes across Ayrshire between December 2022 and March 2023, including tricking vulnerable victims into letting him into their homes.

Markward, who has more than 100 offences on his record dating back to the 1980s, was found guilty of defrauding and stealing from nine victims, some in their nineties, by pretending to be a nurse, handyman and electrician.

Alan Wilson, Managing Director of SELECT, said: “Sadly, there are criminals who will use any disguise to gain access to people’s homes – including pretending to be qualified electricians.

“We would remind householders to always check that visitors are who they say they are, particularly if they claim to be a tradesperson. Ask to see their ECS Grade Card or similar official form of identification that proves they are a qualified electrician.

“A genuine and fully qualified electrotechnical professional will never object to showing you their credentials – in fact, they’ll be proud to do so.”

The Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) is the electrotechnical industry’s official ID and competence card scheme, covering those working in the sector across the UK. Overseen by the Scottish Joint Industry Board (SJIB) in Scotland, it confirms the holder’s identity, qualifications and current status to work in the trade.

SELECT, which is currently celebrating its 125th anniversary, represents more than 1,200 firms across Scotland. All members meet strict criteria, are accredited in at least one technical discipline and employ skilled and apprentice electricians working to the highest standards.

Mr Wilson added: “Our message is simple – don’t be rushed, don’t be embarrassed to ask and don’t open your door unless you’re satisfied the person is legitimate.

“It could protect you or someone you love from becoming a victim.”

SELECT advice on choosing an electrician 

  • Check first – before inviting a company to quote, search SELECT’s ‘Find a Contractor‘ database to find your nearest fully qualified electrician. 
  • Be direct – have a question prepared, such as: “Before we get started can I see a copy of your ECS Card?” This certifies the competence of the holder to undertake work.
  • Ask early – make your checks and ask your questions right at the start, before any electrical work has been agreed or undertaken. 
  • Be firm – a registered electrician can easily provide proof of their status. If a tradesperson is unwilling to show evidence of their qualification and registration status, it could be a warning sign. 
  • Shop around – before undertaking any work, always ensure you get at least two written quotes. 
  • Get advice – if you’re not sure of anything and need more guidance, please phone SELECT on 0131 445 5577. 

Can you help? LIFT looking for stuff!

We’re on the lookout for some bits and pieces that could be reused at the centre 👇

⭕️ Large cardboard tubes (like the ones from inside carpets or lino, even bigger is great!)

⭕️ Any black material, curtains, bedding, fabric you no longer need

⭕️ Old pool noodles or foam tubes

⭕️ Wooden pallets, large bits of wood, or strong plastic piping

⭕️ Lots of old newspapers 📰

💡 Please don’t go out your way to buy anything – second-hand or spare items are perfect and very much appreciated!

📞 To arrange drop-off, give us a call on 0131 467 3578.

Thank you so much for your support! 😊💛

#CommunitySupport

#RecycleReuse

#Muirhouse

#EdinburghCommunity

#LIFT

#DonationsWelcome

#Upcycle

#ReduceWaste

#SupportLocal

#CommunityMatters

Ukraine: United We Stand?

COALITION LEADERS TO ACCOMPANY ZELENSKYY TO CRUCIAL TRUMP MEETING

President Macron and Prime Minister Starmer yesterday co-chaired a virtual meeting of a grouping of ‘Coalition of the Willing’ Leaders with the participation of President Zelenskyy.

Leaders convened to discuss support for Ukraine and next steps in peace negotiations following President Trump’s meeting with President Putin in Alaska.

The Leaders reaffirmed their continued support to Ukraine, and praised President Zelenskyy’s desire for a just and lasting peace as he prepares for further consultations with President Trump in Washington DC. 

The leaders also commended President Trump’s commitment to providing security guarantees to Ukraine, in which the Coalition of the Willing will play a vital role through the Multinational Force Ukraine, among other measures. 

They re-emphasised the readiness to deploy a reassurance force once hostilities have ceased, and to help secure Ukraine’s skies and seas and regenerate Ukraine’s armed forces. 

The President and Prime Minister also informed leaders that they would travel to Washington DC today for a meeting with President Trump, alongside President Zelenskyy.

80th Anniversary of the end of the war against Japan

Commemorating those who fought and died in the campaigns in the Far East

YESTERDAY (Saturday 16 August 2025) The Royal Scots Regimental Association led a memorial service at The Royal Scots Memorial Garden at Lauriston Castle, Edinburgh, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Victory over Japan which marked the end of the Second World War (VJ Day, 15 August 1945).

Those on parade included descendants of those who fought in the Far East between 1941 and 1945, former Royal Scots and their families as well as representatives of other services and arms that were involved in the various campaigns.  

Having formed up in front of Lauriston Castle, they marched the short distance to the Royal Scots Memorial Garden behind the Royal Scots Association Pipe Band and their Association Standards.  

A short service was conducted by Reverend Dr Iain May, Chaplain to The Royal Scots Regimental Association.  The wreath laying was led by Brigadier George Lowder, President of The Royal Scots Regimental Association.

The Royal Scots, recruited predominantly from Edinburgh, the Lothians and Peeblesshire, were involved from the first day to the last of this bitterly fought campaign.  

Their 2nd Battalion fought in defence of Hong Kong from 8 December 1941 and 144 of those who survived were among the 828 prisoners who perished when their ship, the Lisbon Maru, was torpedoed in October 1942; the remainder, if they survived, endured four years of captivity.  

The Regiment’s 1st Battalion fought through the later campaign in Burma, including the Battles of Kohima and Aradura which marked the turning point in the war against Japan and led to the final victory on VJ Day, 15 August 1945.

Malcolm Warrack, son of Lt Col Morren Warrack who fought at Kohima with the regiment, said: “A group of Royal Scots Veterans felt very strongly about the lack of some form of local memorial specifically for their fellow soldiers who did not come back from the Burma Campaign and Kohima in particular.

“George Rogers, Ian Henderson and Morren Warrack co-ordinated the preparation and creation of this Memorial Garden; they spoke often about the “Forgotten Army” in the Far East so it is particularly fitting that 80 years after VJ Day we remember them.”

Gerry Borg, son of Lisbon Maru survivor John Borg, said: “We can never fully appreciate the suffering and pain endured by the brave men who were Prisoners of War in Japan.

“From a very young age we were taught that the word ‘starving’ was forbidden in our house. Dad would remind us that we never had, and hopefully never would, experience true starvation.

“On the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, it is right that we remember the sacrifice made on our behalf. We must preserve the history of the events and, honour those involved.”

Brigadier Lowder added: “Having had the privilege as a young officer to meet some of the survivors of the 1st and 2nd Battalions and hear first hand their accounts of their experiences in the Far East, Hong Kong and in captivity, this 80th Anniversary of the end of the war against Japan was particularly poignant.

“The Royal Scots (The Royal Regiment) will never forget their service and especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice.”