SCORES of musicians from Renfrewshire enjoyed a weekend to remember as they competed at the World Pipe Band Championships.


Johnstone Pipe Band, Kilbarchan Pipe Band and the Renfrewshire Schools Pipe Band were all in action at the prestigious event at Glasgow Green.


Members of Johnstone’s Grade 1 band qualified for Saturday’s final, with colleagues also securing a place in the Grade 3B final.

READ MORE: Kilbarchan musicians lead the way at Shinty parade


Kilbarchan Pipe Band were eliminated in the preliminary round of the Grade 4B section, while Renfrewshire Schools finished in 10th place in the Novice B Grade.

The Gazette:

Members of the Kilbarchan Pipe Band during a recent display in Glasgow Green (Photo: DHH Media) 


A spokesperson for Johnstone Pipe Band said: “To see three buses leave Johnstone with our family and supporters was great to see.


“The amount of organisation and preparation is huge and I thank everyone for their contribution.


“Our new Schools Pipe Band played really well. Our first outing at the Worlds will show the sheer improvements we have made over the last few years.


“Our Grade 3B again played well. To win champions of champions both as a drum corp and as a band surely shows the improvements that have been made in the last year and the promise for the future.


“Our grade one band made the final in its second year in grade one. An achievement I am hugely proud of. A good solid season, in our 75th year. It really has been a massive team effort. Well done everyone.”

READ MORE: Scottish stars pay a visit to Bishopton Rugby Club 


Hundreds of bands from 13 countries battled it out for the top prizes, with thousands of spectators there to witness the action.
Bands are placed in nine different competition grades, according to ability.


Known as ‘the worlds’, the event is truly international, with groups representing New Zealand, Denmark, Canada, Oman and Zimbabwe, according to organisers.


Ian Embelton, chief executive of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association, said: “The World Pipe Band Championships has always had the capacity to bring the very best out of the hugely-talented pipers and drummers who work so hard in their bands to be the best.”