Flowers returned to winning form in Skegness last weekend, when they picked up their seventh Butlin's title and first victory since winning the French Open in 2016. Under the direction of Principal Conductor, David Childs, the band were the most consistent of the weekend, producing two high quality performances on Philip Sparke's epic Year of the Dragon and an engaging 'Icons of their Time' entertainment set.

Following their own brilliantly entertaining performance on day two of the contest, Woodfalls Band under Dr. Robert Childs were first onto the podium in third place, and on the back of a finely crafted performance of Contest Music , Desford under Micahel Fowles deservedly took the runner-up spot. However, it came as no surprise when, during the Gala Concert, Flowers were announced as overall Champions and 'Most Entertaining Band', taking with them more than £11k in prize money. 

Despite another early draw, Flowers impressed from the outset, delivering the first of five Year of the Dragon renditions, described by adjudicator, Ian Porthouse as "a performance of quality." However, it was the band's outstanding entertainment set the following day that left the audience wanting more and put the band three points clear of the rest of the field.

Commenting on the weekend David Childs was full of praise for his players, "I enjoyed every moment on stage with Flowers. The players have worked extremely hard in recent months and it was great to see that effort rewarded with two fine performances and a great result. Playing to a packed hall on both days was a thrill, but I was particularly delighted for Paul Richards who gave a scintillating world premiere performance of Jonathan Bates's new soprano solo, Let Freedom Ring."

Courtesy Brass Band World. 

Championship Section Results

Adjudicators:  
Paul Holland & Ian Porthouse (Music on both disciplines) 
Paul Andrews and Kevin Wadsworth (Entertainment) 

1. Flowers (David Childs)
2. Desford Colliery (LCITWF) (Michael Fowles)
3. Woodfalls (Dr Robert Childs)
4. Friary Guildford (Chris King)
5. Redbridge Brass (Jeremy Wise)
6. Virtuosi GUS (Adam Cooke)
7. Jaguar Land Rover (Dave Lea)
8. Haverhill Silver (Paul Filby)

Highest Placed Mining Band: Desford Colliery (LCITWF) 
Set Test Winner: Desford Colliery (LCITWF) 
Most Entertaining Band: Flowers 
Test Piece Soloist: Nikki Longden (Flugel) — Desford 
Geoff Dove Soloist Award: Paul Richards (soprano) — Flowers