The traditional Highland Games took place at Tomintoul, Aberdeenshire, last Saturday, July 18, writes Duncan Watson. The village is believed to be the highest settlement in the country. In common with the USA, this year marks its 250 years of existence. There were extra events to celebrate this. Considering the population of the village and surrounding area, there was a huge crowd of spectators and, having chatted to a few, it was…
Stonehaven (July 19) enjoyed spectacular weather with warm sunshine. There is no piobaireachd at this games. Champion piper was Campbell Wilson, listed as of Czechia though originally from New Zealand. Pictured above are prizewinners Calum Brown, Campbell Wilson and Ursa Beckford. Open March: 1 Campbell Wilson 2 Calum Brown 3 Ursa BeckfordOpen S&R: 1 Campbell Wilson 2 Calum Brown 3 Ursa Beckford U18 March: 1 Rory Menzies 2 Larry Presslie…
TIn January 1918, the South and Port Melbourne Thistle Society announced that women would be enrolled in its pipe band. This society’s male band was no weak or novelty outfit. It was a champion band. But the war had depleted its ranks. The Weekly Times reported: ‘It is announced that 20 young women have joined the pipe band of the South and Port Melbourne Thistle Society.’ By Stephen Matthews, Chairman…
Ian Forbes: If the RSPBA had promoted the top two or three Grade Two bands from last year’s Worlds, (e.g. Glasgow Skye, North Stratton, Dunedin – I forget the exact order), bands which many thought were already playing to a Grade 1 standard, this would have been the outcome: a) there would be no need for Grade 2 qualifiers this year, and b) Grade 1 numbers would have swelled to…
Ian Forbes: The RSPBA deserves full credit and congratulations for the increased number of bands scheduled to attend this year’s Worlds, as well as the welcomed expansion of events on the Friday. Most grades have greater band numbers participating compared to 2025, and there are many more reasons for pipe band enthusiasts and supporters to venture out to Glasgow Green on the Friday – previously characterised by very low attendance….
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