GOODWICK Brass Band has been crowned UK National champions following a brilliant performance at the Racecourse Stadium Cheltenham on Saturday.

Goodwick produced a stunning, almost flawless performance of Kenneth Downie’s Purcell Variations.

The two adjudicators had little hesitation in choosing Goodwick as clear Second Section champions ahead of Bilton Silver Band from Rugby and Swindon Pegasus Brass, with old rivals City of Cardiff finishing fifth.

Goodwick’s Musical Director Matthew Jenkins said: “This was an unbelievable achievement although I knew when we left the stage that we had produced an exceptional performance.

“This is a youthful but dedicated band who have worked immensely hard over the last few months.

He added: “It’s a dream come true.

“On Saturday they were really in the zone and the adjudication showed how far they have come in terms of musicianship and technical ability.”

Chairman Tony Evans said: “This is the best day of my band career. We have worked long and hard to put the band on the map of British banding and this is fantastic. I knew they had played magnificently but it was agonising just waiting for the verdict.”