A group of musicians from Grampian Police Scotland Pipe Band used pedal power at the weekend (Saturday 2 July 2016) to raise funds for new instruments which could help them re-establish as the premier pipe band within the north of Scotland.
More than 15 band members took part in a cycle ride from Aberdeen’s Duthie Park to Banchory in Royal Deeside and back to give their coiffeurs a much-needed boost. Organised by Side Drummer, Mike Duncan and Tennor Drummer, Shona Brown, around £2,000 has been raised so far from the 38 mile trip along the Old Deeside Railway Line. The cash will be put towards buying top of the range drums for the band in coming months.
Grampian Police Scotland Pipe Band is made up of police officers, support staff and members of the community from across the region. Led by Pipe Major Pamela Whyte and leading drummer Nicky Gibson, it was formed in 1907 as Aberdeen City Police Pipe Band but changed names in 1975 after Scottish North Eastern Counties Constabulary merged to form Grampian Police.
Over the years it has been considered one of the world’s top pipe bands competing at grade one status and picking up numerous prestigious accolades at local and major competitions. It is currently playing at grade two status but has big ambitions to move up positions this season.
Blair Milne, a Piper in the band for 16 years and Pipe Sergeant says: “The cycle ride was a fantastic way to raise some additional funds for the band. We had mixed weather but thankfully managed to battle through the elements and complete the 38 mile route in good time. There were a few grazed knees by the end and I’m sure there’ll be some aches and pains in the days to come!
“We have an exceptionally talented and committed group of musicians who have been working hard all season. Our recent positive result at the European Championships came as a welcomed boost and we are determined and driven to continue this progress. Fundraising efforts like Saturday’s, alongside our valued sponsors, put us in a strong position to help us achieve our ambitions.”
Aberdeen Balmoral Group recently signed up as principal sponsor of the pipe band for the next two years while Newmachar based practice, MAC Architects is online sponsor.
Pipe Major Pamela Whyte adds: “We’d like to thank everyone who sponsored our cycle event – the new drums will certainly give the band a boost and help drive us forward towards our ambitious goal.”
The band came 11th in the recent European Championships held at Grant Park in Forres. It is set to compete next in the Scottish Pipe Band Championships on Saturday 30 July in Dumbarton. The final major competition of the season will be the World Pipe Band Championships held at Glasgow Green on Saturday 13 August.