Published 16 July 2024
This year’s Scottish Pipe Band Championship marks a quarter of a century since the first event in Levengrove Park in 1999.
The event in Dumbarton will be a special day for West Dunbartonshire Council workers and Glasgow Skye Pipe Band Association members, Piper Craig Bell and Drummer Ian MacMillian who have competed in all 25 championships.
Ian, 64, who plays drum bass, began his musical career in 1972 and over the years has performed in the Royal Variety Show, at Vatican City for Pope John Paul and also participated in the Tartan Parade in New York. However despite these accolades, Ian says playing at his home ground is still something special. He said: “The location is just ideal for the Championship. The views are appreciated by everyone who comes and no matter the weather, everyone really enjoys playing here.”
Craig , 35, has been playing the bagpipes since he was eight-years-old and has claimed a number of titles over the years with Pipe Bands including being named World and European champions. But his fondest memory is winning titles alongside his younger sister at his home championship in Levengrove. He said “In 2016 I was playing in the Johnstone Pipe Band with my younger sister Rebecca and we both won that year. Winning alongside her is one of the best wins.”
The pair and the Glasgow Skye Pipe Band Association will be joined by more than 100 bands from all over the world as well as thousands of residents and visitors at the free event on Saturday, 27 July.
Event Chieftain Provost Douglas McAllister said: “We are thrilled to mark the 25th anniversary of the Scottish Pipe Band Championships at Levengrove Park. We know that many people will hold fond memories of this event over the years and it is a treasured tradition here in West Dunbartonshire< and one that is highly enjoyed by both the pipe band and local community.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone back here for the anniversary event on the 27 July and invite everyone to join us celebrating.”
Colin Mulhern, Chief Executive of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association, added: “We are all looking forward to welcoming competitors and visitors back to the event in the stunning setting of Levengrove Park to celebrate the 25th Anniversary. ”
There is a pay and park facility at the venue however due to the high volume of people expected at the event, visitors are encouraged to use public transport. Dalreoch railway station and buses into Dumbarton High Street are both within easy walking distance of the park.
Limited free car parking is also available at the West Dunbartonshire Council offices at Church Street, G82 1QL.