Forres and District Pipe band has been awarded £2642 by the Coop Local Community Fund
A local music group has been awarded more than £2500 for uniforms, tuition and the maintenance of its instruments.
Forres and District Pipe Band has accepted a grant of £2642 from the Coop Local Community Fund which it aims to use to further develop “togetherness, teamwork and a family-friendly environment within the community”.
A band spokesperson said: “We are delighted to receive the funding as we are always looking for support to help keep the band going.
“We will invest it in uniforms, instruments and tuition, helping to encourage the youngsters in our community carry on the traditions of the pipe band.”
In the run up to Christmas, the band led the Forres Christmas lights switch-on parade along High Street and performed outside the Tolbooth.
Most recently, it hosted a fundraising coffee morning at home venue, Forres Town Hall, raising £1195.62.
“We had a raffle, bottle stall and chocolate chances,” said the spokesperson. “There were also performances from members of the band.
“A huge thank you to the community for coming out on a miserable day - we appreciate the support!”
A number of junior members had great success in solo pipes and drums competitions at Forres, Dufftown, Abernethy, and Nairn Highland Games in 2024.
Junior piper Charlie Holder joined the National Youth Pipe Band of Scotland. He is also pipe sergeant in RAFAC National Pipes and Drums Corp and a member of the Tri-Service National Pipes and Drums Corp.
“We hope their success continues in the coming year,” added the spokesperson. “The band will again have a busy summer of attending and competing in Highland games across the region.”
She finished: “We would encourage anyone interested in learning a new instrument or with previous experience to get in touch via the Forres and District Pipe Band Facebook page.”
