History of Wingates Band
Wingates Brass Band is one of the UK’s most historic and respected brass ensembles, with a tradition of musical excellence spanning over 150 years. Based in Wingates, near Westhoughton in Greater Manchester, the band has been a cornerstone of the British brass band movement since its formation in 1873.
Origins: 1873–1890s
The band began in 1873, formed by members of the Independent Methodist church’s Bible class in response to a challenge from the nearby Westhoughton Old Band. Originally a drum and fife group, it quickly transitioned into a brass band and adopted the name Wingates Temperance Band, reflecting its roots in the temperance movement.
In 1881, the band entered its first contest at Hindley, winning second prize — a sign of potential yet to be fully realised. Early competitions, including at the famous Crystal Palace in London, helped build experience and confidence.
A major turning point came in 1891 when the band appointed William Rimmer as its professional conductor. Under his leadership, Wingates transformed from a local ensemble into a force on the national stage.
The Golden Age: Early 1900s
The first decade of the 20th century saw Wingates rise to prominence:
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1906: The band achieved the coveted “double” — winning both the British Open Brass Band Championships and the National Championships of Great Britain.
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1907: Wingates repeated this feat, securing a “double double” — only the second time it had ever been achieved in brass band history.
These back-to-back championship victories placed Wingates at the very top of brass banding in Britain. Their performance at the 1907 Crystal Palace contest, with over 150 bands in attendance, became one of the defining achievements in the band’s early history.
Championship Success and Contesting Legacy
Wingates Band has a rich contesting record that spans more than a century. Highlights include:
National Championships of Great Britain
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1st Place: 1906, 1907, 1931, 1971
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Other top placements throughout the 20th century.
British Open Brass Band Championships
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Victories: 1906, 1907, 1918, 1921, 1923, 1939, 1975
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Regular placings in the top ranks over many decades.
French Open Brass Band Championship
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1st Place: 2004, 2006
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2nd Place: 2007
Regional Success
Wingates has also enjoyed numerous wins at the North West Area Championships, including titles in 1945, 1971, 1974, and 1995 — demonstrating long-term regional strength.
Musical Leadership Through the Years
Wingates’ success has always been shaped by influential conductors and musical directors.
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William Rimmer (appointed 1891): Credited with building the band’s early competitive reputation.
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Throughout the 20th century, leading bandmasters continued to steer Wingates through major contests and artistic development.
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Recent Leadership: In 2024, Matthew Ryan, a Bolton native and experienced brass band conductor, became Musical Director. With a track record of directing contest-winning performances and an active role in brass band education, he brings renewed energy and artistic vision to the band’s next chapter.
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In 2025, Captain Andrew Porter, Director of Music of the Band of the Grenadier Guards, joined as Musical Consultant, enriching the band’s rehearsal and performance expertise.