TWO North Ayrshire pipers celebrated success at a popular event recently – with one competing as a solo piper for the first time in over 40 years.

The Caledonian Piping Club were represented at the Ayrshire Dumfries and Galloway Branch – Solo Piping and Full Pipe Band Competition held at Sanquhar Academy in Dumfries on Saturday, March 23 by Calum Ramsay, Scott McDonald and Group Leader, Gerard McClumpha, who had not competed in a solo event for over 40 years.

All three pipers were playing in different events and all played extremely well, against very good competition.

Unfortunately, Calum did not get on the prize list, but between Scott and Gerard, they managed to come away with a first for Scott and a runner-up place for Gerard. Both players were also confirmed as the ‘Best in Branch’ Winners, confined to A. D. & G. Branch.

Gerard is also helping out at Troon Blackrock Pipe Band this season, passing on his considerable experience, and in his first competitive outing with the band – helped them to a third place in their own Grade, 4 and another third place, when they played up a grade into Grade 3.