Field Marshal Montgomery hit the right note to claim success at successful UK Pipe Band Championships in Belfast
Belfast resonated with the stirring sound of pipes and drums on Saturday as the prestigious UK Pipe Band Championships arrived in the city, marking one of the most celebrated events in the international pipe band calendar.
The championships, which were held at Grove Playing Fields, brought bands, drum majors, supporters and visitors from across the United Kingdom and beyond for the showcase of musical excellence, tradition and community spirit.
The event was brought about through a partnership between the Ulster-Scots Agency and the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association, with funding support from Belfast City Council.
Around 50 of the top pipe bands in the British Isles battled it out for the top spot in their grade. However, a small number of bands from Scotland had to pull out due to the disorder in the city at the start of last week.
There would be local success as the well-renowned Field Marshal Montgomery walked away with the top title in the Grade 1 MSR contest, with the Lisburn-based band also winning the drumming. The achievements would continue as Drum Major Emma Barr won the Adult Drum Major title.
The Chieftain for the Day was Communities Minister Gordon Lyons MLA, who received the traditional salute of Heilan Laddie before addressing the crowds and presenting the prizes.
Speaking about the day’s events, Ulster-Scots Agency Chief Executive Ian Crozier said: "We are delighted that the UK Pipe Band Championships went off so well, with competitors and spectators alike having a great day at the Grove Playing Fields in Belfast.
"We want to thank the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association for bringing the competition to Belfast, the City Council, who provided significant financial and logistical support; and all of our partner organisations including EEO (organisers of the Belfast International Tattoo), the Pipe Band College NI and Small Steps who helped make the event a success.
"The event was testament to the strong cultural ties that bind Ulster and Scotland, not just in terms of the pipe band traditions on display, but also in the people who were there, with stories of family and community all around.
"There were also plenty of people in attendance who were seeing and hearing our Ulster-Scots culture for the first time and having a great day out as well".