The Edinburgh Pipe Band Championship has received a massive boost as its competition draw reveals five Grade One bands have entered the competition; an unheard of occurrence for an inaugural piping event.
With the deadline for entries to the competition now closed, the Edinburgh Pipe Band Championship has entries from Inveraray & District Pipe Band, Boghall & Bathgate, Dysart & Dundonald, Lothian & Borders Police and Fife Constabulary, the newest of the Grade One Bands.
Combined with 34 other entries from a range of bands from across Scotland, it is shaping up to be a really exciting event. Local bands including Newtongrange and Penicuik have entered along with bands from further afield including The Royal Burgh of Stirling, Turriff & District and the Scottish Borders.
The Edinburgh Pipe Band Championship takes place on Sunday 24th July at the Royal Highland Centre in association with the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association Lothian & Borders Branch. Highland Dancing, Drum Major competitions and Highland Games will also take place on the day.
John Hughes, Chairman of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association Lothian and Borders Branch said:
“To have five Grade One bands entering an inaugural pipe band event is unheard of and shows a real demand for an Edinburgh piping event.
“This is a considerable coup and we are really encouraged by the support of Scotland’s leading pipe bands in making this event a success. To date, we have a total of 39 performances taking place from bands from across Scotland all competing for the inaugural championship title. It’s sure to be a hotly contested championship.”
Tickets for the Edinburgh Pipe Band Championship are available to purchase online at: www.edinburghpipebandchampionship.com Tickets are priced at £7 for adults and children (under 16) go free. Car parking is £4.
Photo Andy Bennetts / Scottish Viewpoint
