The two Johnstone Pipe Bands travelled to Forres at the weekend for the European Championships.  On a day of high drama the Grade 4 Band won their competition with the Grade 2 band placing third, this was a first major competition win for the 4s and one that was richly deserved after some fine showings this season.

Grade 4 Band celebrating after being crowned European Champions
Grade 4 Band celebrating after being crowned European Champions. Photos by John Shaw

Grade 2 Pipe Major Keith Bowes Jr commented, “ As the Grade 2 Pipe Major, I was delighted with the association as a whole. Both bands displayed excellent performances and to get 3rd out of 18 bands in grade 2 was a good achievement. To top the day off, our grade 4 pipe band came out on top as European Champions. This shows the callibre of player that is coming through our feeder system, which will provide our big band with talented players in the years to come as they gain experience and continue developing in our grade 4 band.”

Pipe Majors Keith Bowes Sr & Jr with their respective trophies.
Pipe Majors Keith Bowes Sr & Jr with their respective trophies.

Grade 4 Pipe Major Keith Bowes Sr commented, “A 1st major win at the European Championships for the 4b band. The hard work and patience finally paying off. An enjoyable weekend away at the scenic Forres the band now looks forward to a few weeks off competing before returning to the competitive circuit on 23rd July in Paisley. Next event for the band is Sma Shot day in Paisley on sat 2nd July.”

Johnstone Pipe Band are currently on the lookout for sponsorship to help enable them expand and progress the band and their educational activities, for further information please contact the band on 07751 500520.  Details on the band’s learner setup can also be found by calling the same number.