Triple award-winning success for Milltown

Based in the Portglenone district, Milltown were crowned winners and overall Northern Ireland Champions in the Junior Sacred Marching Band, Junior Marching Band and Marching Band Drum Corp categories.

These awards follow on from a year of celebrations for Milltown’s 50th Anniversary in 2011 and help the band to continue its successful march forward at the start of 2012. This is an excellent achievement for Milltown, who only entered the competition for the first time this year.

It reflects the hard work, dedication and support from all of its members and tutors.

At present, membership is at its highest number in years with over 20 regular accordion players and a compliment of more than five drummers.

Milltown have extended thanks members of the public, bands and elected representatives for their continued support at various local events, fundraisers and the messages of support and congratulations they have been receiving.

Special thanks have been extended to the Ulster-Scots Agency for their financial support in the past year and the most recent award of funding for ‘Portglenone Ulster-Scots Accordion and Drum Tuition.’ This activity has been made possible by the support of the Ulster-Scots Agency on a weekly basis, in premises kindly granted by Third Presbyterian Church in Portglenone.

For your opportunity to hear the award-winning Milltown Accordion Band, the annual Gospel Concert will take place in Cullybackey High School on Saturday, March 24, at 7.45pm, featuring various artists.

Part proceeds this year will be donated to Meningitis Research Foundation in memory of Christopher McKee. Tickets cost £5 and can be purchased from band members or entry can be paid at the door on the evening of the concert. The band will also be hosting its now annual parade in Portglenone on Friday, June 22.