Glasgow pipe band drums up support

Jun 11 2009 By Peter Carroll

Williamwood Pipe Band

A 25-STRONG team of traditional Scots musicians scaled one of the country's top Munros to blast their drums and pipes at 3200 feet.The hills were alive with music as members of the Williamwood Pipe Band, dragged their equipment - featuring 10 sets of pipes, two side drums one tenor and a bass drum - up Ben Lomond last Sunday.

As well as playing the likes of 'Scotland the Brave' and apt tunes like 'Gaelforce Wind' and 'High Road to Gairloch', the members of Williamwood also raised an impressive s3000 through sponsorship.

Drummer Grant McDowell said: "We are delighted we completed our challenge to the top of Ben Lomond.

"It was very tough in the soaring heat, but positive team morale and motivation ensured that each and every one of us completed the climb successfully."

The money will be used to help fund the south side band, which first formed in 1945 by the 128th Glasgow Company of the Boys' Brigade.

When the band reached the peak they weren't alone. Members of the Rangers Charity Foundation were also resting at Ben Lomond's summit at the same time along with the club's Scottish Cup trophy.

Chairman of Williamwood, Andy Melvine said: "A few of the band members are Rangers fans, so they were chuffed and surprised to see the cup all the way up the mountain.

"The climb was exhausting but hugely rewarding to the members."

The band's next mission is to compete in this year's World Pipe Band Championships at Glasgow Green in August. To find out more visit the website: www.williamwood-pipeband.co.uk Peter Carroll