The Worlds 2026: Views of a Retired Adjudicator

Unfortunately, I was able to attend only the Saturday of the World Pipe Band Championships this year.  Unlike some of the previous years the weather was pleasantly warm, free from rain and with only a mild wind, so the atmosphere was ideal for tuning and for the band performances.  Both days were well attended by spectators (estimated at around 35,000 over the two days).  The official programme showed a total…

The Worlds 2026: Readers Have Their Say

The comments on the 2026 Worlds continue to reverberate. There can be no question that this year’s championship was an outstanding success for which the RSPBA and the promoters, Glasgow Life, deserve considerable credit. But things could be better say our readers. The treatment of the Juvenile grade and the lack of concern for spectators can be added to the row over Friday heats in Grade 2. We start with…

Review: 2026 Worlds Grade 1

On Friday I wrote that after hearing all of the Grade 1 Medley I had three bands out on their own and one I would back to take the title. The three were St Laurence O’Toole, Fife Police and Simon Fraser University – and my cash was on SFU. Not only did P/M Bevan’s boys (and girls) take the Friday Medley, but they also won the Saturday one too and…

Highland Games Round-up: Ballater, Crieff, Helmsdale

Ballater Games were held last Thursday with a very low turnout – another consequence of Worlds Week. Helmsdale Games in the far north were on Saturday, August 15 and Crieff yesterday, August 16. Pictured above is Champion Piper at Helmsdale, Angus MacPhee. Thursday 13th August saw the Ballater Highland Games in upper Deeside, writes Duncan Watson. It is a popular venue for tourists and was well attended. The weather was pleasantly warm…

Glenfinnan Gathering and Nairn Games Results

Entries at both these games were severely affected by the date clash with the World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow. Conditions were generally good with healthy attendances of tourists and locals. At Glenfinnan there was a clean sweep for Calum Craib who won all senior events. Runner-up in all categories was Archie Clark with Ruairidh MacDonald third in the Strathspey and Reel. Pictured above is Calum Craib receiving his trophy…