A popular brass band event at a Dorset pub is striking all the right notes after growing from a small idea into a much‑loved summer tradition.
Brassed Off at The Horse, held at The White Horse in Stourpaine, has become so popular that organisers now have more bands wanting to take part than there are available Sunday evenings in the summer calendar.
The event began nine years ago when landlord Chris approached local organisers Diana and Martin Frith about arranging a few brass band performances at the pub.
Since then, interest has grown year after year, with bands from Dorset, Wiltshire and Somerset taking part in what has become a regular fixture in the local music scene.
Chris and his wife, Ali, have long been passionate supporters of brass banding and have been keen to encourage younger musicians to embrace the tradition.
What started as a series of performances has evolved into a friendly and fun competition, drawing large audiences throughout the summer months.
The popularity of the event means many visitors now arrive armed with their own chairs to secure a seat, while standing room around the venue is often packed with spectators.
Organisers Diana and Martin Frith said the event has developed into much more than a competition, bringing together musicians and audiences who share a love of brass band music.
The season came to a close with a presentation evening on September 6, where players from participating bands gathered at the pub for an evening of entertainment, awards and celebrations.
Fittingly, a brass band provided the music while trophies were handed out and food was provided by Chris and Ali.
This year, the couple introduced a new initiative aimed at supporting the future of brass banding by offering a bursary to one member aged 18 or under from each participating band.
The move reflects Chris's long‑standing commitment to encouraging young players and helping ensure the future of brass bands.
Organisers said the competition's growing reputation is spreading even further, with a band from Oxfordshire already expressing an interest in taking part next year.
With demand continuing to grow, Brassed Off at The Horse looks set to remain one of Dorset's most unusual and popular summer music traditions.
Diana and Martin Frith, organisers of Brassed Off at The Horse, said: "Chris and Ali want to encourage the brass band traditions, especially for younger brass players.
"The bursary reflects Chris's wish to encourage young brass players as they are the future of the brass banding world."
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