Poppy Scotland have sent this: ‘Whether you’re a passionate piper, masterful musician or simply want to stand proud and shine a light of remembrance on the brave men who gave their lives or were captured and taken thousands of miles across to Eastern Europe where they remained until the end of the War, join us as we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the ‘other Dunkirk’, the Battle of St Valery-en-Caux,…

We are grateful to Alistair Aitken OBE, former RSPBA adjudicator for drawing our attention to this humorous piece which first appeared in the RSPBA’s Pipe Band magazine several years ago. Says Alistair: ‘The article is quite funny but also very realistic. I remember going to Cowal under similar circumstances to compete in Grade 4 with Colinton & Currie Pipe Band [above] in the 1960s. 4.30am start so that we could play…

The deadline for the Argyllshire Gathering’s 2/4 March competition is midnight tonight – May 31. No entries can be accepted after that time. The tune is to commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the Gathering which began in 1871. More than 40 entries have been received so far with less than a day remaining. Judging will begin tomorrow (June 1) with an announcement of the winner made as soon as possible…

US-based piper, teacher and piobaireachd authority Jimmy McIntosh MBE is now at the proofing stage of his new book reminiscing on his long life in piping. The montage above shows him having his daily tune at his home in South Carolina, with the Glenfiddich trophy in 1974 and in a promo shot for a new album. Jimmy (94) is still very fit and alert for his age and and has…