Bideford Town Band secures national championship spot

Bideford Town Band has secured its spot in the 2025 National Brass Band Championships after finishing second out of 17 bands at the West of England Area Championships in Torquay on March 8. 

This marks the band’s second consecutive qualification for the event, following a strong showing in 2022, where they placed as runners-up.

Tim Watts, Publicity Officer for Bideford Town Band, said “One significant difference is that the band is now safely positioned in a division above which just goes to show the amazing progress it has made under its Musical Director Mark Durham.”

Bideford Town Band’s roots stretch back to 1853, with the first known mention of a brass band in the town appearing in the Bideford Gazette. 

The early band, consisting of just a handful of players, performed in public recitals across the town. 

Over the years, the band has grown in size and reputation, becoming an integral part of the local community.

Mark Durham joined the band in 2014.

Having moved to Bideford with his family in 2013, Mark returned to playing music after a brief break. 

Now preparing for the upcoming trip to Cheltenham, the band is seeking sponsorship to help cover the costs of the event. 

Anyone interested in supporting the band can contact them via their website at www.bidefordtownband.co.uk or through their Facebook page.

“If anyone would like to support the band by sponsorship for what will be an expensive trip, or indeed at any time, please get in touch,” said Tim.