Entries are coming in thick and fast for Edinburgh’s first ever pipe band championship, with the Pipes and Drums of Central Scotland Police leading the way.
The pipe band was one of the first to sign up to compete in Edinburgh’s inaugural pipe band championship. Its 30-strong band headed up by Pipe Major Robert Russell will compete in the Grade Three category.
The Pipes and Drums of Central Scotland Police will be joined at the competition, which takes place at the Royal Highland Centre on Sunday 24th July, by Newtongrange, Boghall and Bathgate, the Scottish Borders Pipe Band and Grade One bands Inveraray & District and Fife Constabulary Band. The bands will contest seven categories to be crowned championship winners.
Pipe Major Robert Russell said:-
“The Edinburgh Pipe Band Championship is a welcome addition to the piping calendar. There hasn’t been a piping competition in Edinburgh for over 15 years so we’re really looking forward to competing and building on our recent win at Glamis.”
The one-day competition will also feature Drum Major and Highland Dancing competitions. Heavy events including the caber toss and family entertainment including bouncy castles and face painting will be available.
John Hughes, event organiser and Chairman of The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association Lothian & Borders Branch, said:
“There is real excitement about the Edinburgh Pipe Band Championship, the first piping event in the capital in over 15 years, and we’re delighted to have such a positive response from bands across Scotland including the Pipes and Drums of Central Scotland Police, Fife Constabulary Band, Newtongrange and Inveraray & District Band.”
Archie Glendinning, event organiser and director at the Royal Highland Centre said:
“The Pipes and Drums of Central Scotland Police is one of the first bands to sign up for this year’s inaugural Edinburgh Pipe Band Championship. It’s shaping up to be a really exciting competition.
“We hope to have over 35 performances from bands across Scotland over a range of Grades from Juvenile to Grade One. There will also be drum major competitions, heavy events and lots of family entertainment making it a great family day out.”
The family day out starts at 9am, with the grand finale taking place at 5.30pm. Tickets are available online at www.ticketmaster.co.uk and are priced at adults – £7, children (under 16) – free, car parking – £4.
