Newcastle’s Donard Park was the venue for the final RSPBANI Branch outdoor competition of the season which included the final of the Champion of Champions competition. While it was a little cold in the early part of the day the warm afternoon sunshine provided ideal conditions for the competitors and the large body of spectators at what is one of the most scenic venues below the towering Mountains of Mourne.
Local councillor Glyn Hanna himself a piper, albeit of the ‘Brian Boru’ variety, welcomed the bands and drum majors to Newcastle and praised their high standards and achievements over the season both local and in Scotland.
He paid tribute to the RSPBA NI Branch and all those who had contributed to making the day such a success. Prior to the prize giving a trophy in memory of the late Alan Murtagh (Woodgrange Pipe Band) was presented by his former pupils Glenn and Robert Cupples and Colin Brannigan.
William Kerr Memorial’s retiring Pipe Major Robert Kirkland BEM, and bass drummer Kenneth Kerr, were acknowledged for their long service (see pic below), and Ravara’s Pipe Major Samuel Connolly and piper Alan Barr were presented with framed certificates to mark 50 years service to the band and the wider pipe band community in Northern Ireland (top).
There was also a parade of the 2026 World Champions, namely Bready Ulster Scots (Grade 4B), Drumlough (Grade 3B) and Drum Majors Carys Graham (Juvenile) and Harry Cupples (Junior).
A number of bands withdrew towards the end of the previous week which was disappointing however competition at Donard Park remained keen. Winners were: 4B Bready Ulster Scots, 4A Gransha, 3B Drumlough, 3A Cullybackey, G2 McNeillstown, G1 Ravara. Drum Majors: Novice Eliza Compston, Junior Willow Rose Elliott, Juvenile Carys Graham and Senior Charlotte Ruddock.
At the close of the day a parade down the Main Street and promenade attracted a large crowd of spectators lining the streets.
NI Champion of Champions
Results are based six out of seven of the local competitions namely Irvinestown, Cookstown, Moira, Antrim, Bangor, Lurgan and Newcastle. The final positions at the Heart of Down contest brought this competition to a conclusion and the following were the winners 2026: 4B Tullylagan, also bass and drums, 4A Moneygore, also bass and drums, 3B McNeillstown, also bass and drums, 3A Major Sinclair Memorial, G2 Tullylagan, also drums, G1 Ravara, also bass and drums.
Closkelt Pipe Band
It was brilliant to hear the news recently that the Closkelt are to return for the 2027 season. Under P/M David Chesney’s 15 year leadership from victory at the Grade 4B World Championships in 2011, the band had progressed to their promotion to Grade 1 and competed among the world’s elite up to the 2025 season.
There can be no doubt that their absence was a major blow for the past season, particularly as they would have provided competition for Ravara who competed alone – something that Closkelt themselves had done in previous years. David Chesney is stepping back with his son Johnny Chesney taking on the role of Pipe Major.
Johnny (above) has been an integral part of the band for many years and was Pipe Sergeant for the past decade. Lead drummer Barney Megoran has moved to Down Pipes & Drums so Lee Lawson will take on the Lead Drummer role. Lee’s incredible experience and achievements within the pipe band world speak for themselves, and the band are excited to have her knowledge, talent, and leadership guiding our drum corps into the future.
Down Academy Juvenile Solos are this Saturday, 19 September 2026 at Ballynahinch High School. Targeted as a practice for juvenile players ahead of the All-Ireland & JAC Solos the following week, it has proved to be extremely successful. The competition will start at 10am.
Craigavon Championships: Lurgan Park was the venue as the RSPBA NI celebrated its 75th Anniversary. The contest programme included a summary of key events over that period. The withdrawal of Field Marshal Montgomery was disappointing however grades 4B to 3A were very competitive. The competition amongst the large entry of drum majors was equally keen and prior to the finale they put on an enjoyable display. The Chieftain of the Day was Alderman Levelle McIlwrath, Deputy Lord Mayor of the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council who supported the competition. Hollymount [Grade 4B], Moneygore [4A], Drumlough [3B], Cloughfin [3A], Tullylagan [2] and Ravara [1] were the grades winners while the Drum Major winners were Charlotte Adamson [Novice], Molly Bell [Junior], Lydia Todd [Juvenile] and Kara Gilmour [Senior]. Full results are available on the RSPBANI Branch website.
James Frazer at Oban: Many congratulations to James Frazer from Rathfriland (pictured below) who plays with the Field Marshal. James took first place in the B Grade March on what was his first appearance at the prestigious Argyllshire Gathering, one of Scotland’s most prestigious solo piping events. James, the current Ulster Solo Champion, is preparing for the All-Ireland Solo Championships later this month and the Piper of the Year in October.
Ashley at Blackthorn: It’s hard to believe that it’s that time of year again when the Blackthorn Pipers Society opens its doors for its monthly piping nights. September guest piper is Ashley McMichael a firm favourite and long-time supporter of these sessions. You are invited to this free event which starts tonight, Wednesday the 16th of September and recurs on the third Wednesday of each month thereafter. Doors open at 7.00pm at the Ulster-Scots Community Network building near Belfast’s Albert Clock with plenty of parking nearby. Lorraine will be there with her tuck shop.
- If you have any news from the NI piping and pipe band scene you’d like to pass on to Gilbert, please email him here. Full results from all competitions here.
