Rob Westacott, new conductor of Slaithwaite Band, couldn’t have had a better start to his latest role.

For Rob, former principal cornet player with both Grimethorpe and Brighouse and Rastrick, led Slaithwaite to a win in the Pogson Bray Entertainment Contest.

The band collected the £400 first prize for its playing in the contest which attracted 13 bands.

"I’m delighted for the band as they played so well for me,” said Rob.

“It’s a great start to my conducting career too, and I was a bit relieved that the final item came off so well and I wasn’t tempting fate too much!

"It’s an excellent set up at Slaithwaite and it enables me to develop my conducting as well as keep playing with the James Shepherd Versatile Brass group. It’s the perfect balance of conducting, playing and home life now!

The band played the world premiere of a new Jonathan Bates composition, Around the World in Four Minutes,  followed by the march, Imperial Echoes.

Horn soloist Neil Hardy played Capriccio Brillante and the band’s version of Irish Blessing featured the quartet of Daniel Booth, Pete Brier, Graham Chadwick and Phil Hudson.

Slaithwaite’s winning performance was rounded off with Victory from Lord of the Dance.

Rob and the band are now looking forward to playing in the Yorkshire Area contest next March.

Elland Silver, directed by David Essex, finished second with Horbury Victoria placed third.

If you’d like to hear that winning form from Slaithwaite, the band is playing its annual Remembrance concert in Slaithwaite Bandroom on November 10 at 7.30pm. Entry is free.