An Arran pipe band has made history as the first from the island to compete in the World Pipe Band Championships in 75 years.

Placing 14th in the Juvenile B class, the Isle of Arran Music School played alongside 148 other bands from around the world in Glasgow Green on Saturday August 13.

The band were coached by their tutor for the past five years, Ross Miller, who will be leaving the school in October to focus on performing.

Quinton Black, the chair of the school said: “As the first band from Arran to compete in 75 years, every local performance was also a chance to hone to the competition set to the best it could be.

“Although for two years tuition had many disruptions, our students increased and progression of many was better than expected - some students started pipes online and only met Ross in person to perform outside in front of the school with him.

“This, the first competitive season for the pipe band, has been a steep learning curve for them, their families, and the charity.

“We are very lucky to have had Ross for 5 years and are proud of the legacy that he is leaving.”

Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald: The pipe band were the first from Arran in 75 years to participate in the championshipsThe pipe band were the first from Arran in 75 years to participate in the championships

The school’s band previously competed British Championships at Greenock in May and in the Scottish Championships in Dumbarton at the end of July, placing 14th and 12th respectively.

As they look to the future the band hopes to work on the feedback given to them at the championships as they hone their skills for the next competitive season.

The band, which is free to participate in, is open to pupils from P6 to S6, provides all instruments an offers free transport to and from practice.

A registered charity, the school relies on donations and funding applications to run.

For more info on joining the band, visit their website or email them at contact@arranmusicschool.org.uk.