Whit Friday band contests cancelled

It's the second year that the brass band contests have been cancelled

Saddleworth’s legendary Whit Friday Band Contests have been cancelled for the second year running.

Billed as “The greatest free show on earth” the colourful spectacle attracts thousands of visitors to the event which sees famous local, national and international bands weave their musical magic across 11 contests.

Bob Rodgers, Group Co-ordinator, said: "It is with great regret the Saddleworth and Oldham Group of Whit Friday Band Contests, with the backing of Oldham Council Officers, have taken the difficult decision to cancel the 2021 event on May 28.

“Having taken into account the current and projected situation regarding Covid-19, they are of the opinion that it would be irresponsible to stage this year's contests.

“Vaccine protection will not be complete and an organised gathering of people, whilst in various stages of protection, would be considered foolhardy and dangerous.

“We must support all the emergency services who have enough problems without our event adding to the extra burden.

“We have also taken into consideration the fact that bands will have had little or no chance to rehearse and to travel in a 'Covid safe' manner would be impossible.”

He added: “It was never anticipated this pandemic would last so long, but hopefully we can get back to something like normality in time for June 10, 2022.”
 
Last year, although the famous walks and brass band contests were cancelled by the lockdown, a host of innovative ideas sprang up to keep proud village traditions alive.

Rev Canon Sharon Jones, Saddleworth Team Rector, said: “It is sad and regrettable that the band contests are cancelled.

“However, plans for the traditional church walks in the morning are still unclear. The Saddleworth churches still hope to walk and gather as usual.

“A decision will be made nearer the time,” she added.

The Whit Friday Walks are the precursor to the band contests when Saddleworth congregations from across the community process to Uppermill with their spectacular range of colourful banners accompanied by brass bands for a united service.

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