By JEANNIE CAMPBELL MBE • PART 9 • SEPTEMBER
3rd September
The Fife Free Press announced that the Kirkcaldy Caledonian Society’s Prize Pipe Band, Pipe Major Falconer, would be playing a programme of music at the Putting Greens, Beveridge Park that evening.
Brilliant weather favoured Aboyne Games. The piping judges were Charles Ewen, Aberdeen, PM Mann, Bucksburn and W Webster, Aberdeen. Marches: 1. PM W Ross, Edinburgh; 2. PM R Reid, Glasgow; 3. Sgt Cruickshank, 5th Gordons; 4. PM W Cruickshank, Aberdeen. Strathspey and Reel: 1. PM Reid, Glasgow; 2. PM Ross, Edinburgh; 3. G S Allan, Royal Scots; 4. Sgt Cruickshank, 5th Gordons. Piobaireachd: 1. PM Reid, Glasgow; 2. G S Allan, Royal Scots; 3. Sgt Cruickshank, 5th Gordons; 4. PM Ross, Edinburgh. Local March, Strathspey and Reel: 1. R Brown, Banchory; 2. J Paterson, Banchory; 3. E Watt, Birse; 4. Miss Grace Ross, Aboyne. Local March, Strathspey and Reel, competitors aged under 20: 1. R Brown; 2. R Nicol, Banchory; 3. J Paterson.
In the evening there was a large audience at the Links for a performance by the band of the 2nd Gordon Highlanders and a number of pipers who supplemented the band selections with pipe music and exhibitions of dancing at intervals.
In Thurso the celebrations of the centenary of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution include a flag day on Wednesday and a procession on Saturday, led by the town pipe band under the leadership of Pipe Major Donald Swanson.
4th September
The results at the Braemar Gathering were, Piobaireachd: 1. PM R Reid, 7th HLI; 2. PM W Ross; 3. PM Allan. Marches: 1 and 2 equal. PM Reid and PM Ross; 3. R B Nicol. Strathspey and Reel: PM Ross; 2. PM Reid; 3. PM Allan. Boys under 21: 1. R B Nicol; 2. R Brown; 3. F Morrison. Marches, local: 1. W MacGregor; 2. W Collie; 3. G McIntosh; 4. P Smith.
Pipers’ Championship: PM Ross and PM Reid equal.
Portrush Regatta was held in glorious weather. At the Salmon Green during the day the Kilrea Pipe Band in their picturesque uniform, discoursed a programme of music, which elicited the very highest encomiums of the spectators.
At Kilmore sports in Ireland the Battlehill Pipe Band played during the afternoon.
5th September
Badenoch Highland Games were held in ideal weather. Piobaireachd: 1. PM John Macdonald, Inverness; 2. PM Ross, Edinburgh; 3. PM J D Macdonald, Scots Guards. March, Strathspey and Reel: 1. PM Ross; 2. PM J Macdonald 3. PM J D Macdonald. Local March, Strathspey and Reel: 1 and 2 equal. C Milne, Kingussie and D Grant, Nethybridge; 3. Ian Mackintosh, Nethybridge; 4. J Macpherson, Kingussie.
In Stonehaven the pipe band played in the Market Square in the evening.
6th September
Pitlochry Games were held in fine weather with an attendance of 5,000 to 6,000. The Duke of Atholl was patron of the gathering, of which Colonel C A J Butter of Pitlochry was chieftain. The judges were, Piping: Mr Ewen MacDiarmid, Aberfeldy; Captain MacDonald, Kingussie; Mr J M McLennan, Edinburgh. Dancing: Lord James Stewart-Murray; PM John MacPherson, Newtonmore; Mr John MacColl, Glasgow; Mr P B MacInlay, Edinburgh. During the afternoon music was provided by the band of the Vale of Atholl Pipers’ Association under Pipe Major Robert Pirnie, while fine gymnastic displays were given by the Gymnastic Society under Instructor D Robertson. The piping results were, Piobaireachd (Open): 1. PM MacDonald, Scots Guards; 2. PM Ross, Edinburgh; 3. J A Gordon, Edinburgh. March, Strathspey and Reel (local): 1. Piper Stewart, Calvine; 2. PM Pirnie, Pitlochry; 3. Piper Laing, Aberfeldy. Marches (open): 1. PM Ross, Edinburgh; 2. PM McDonald, Scots Guards; 3. A Stewart, Calvine. Strathspeys and Reels (open): 1. PM Ross, Edinburgh; 2. PM McDonald, Scots Guards; 3. M McMillan, Aberfeldy.
In the evening Loanhead Pipe Band paid a visit to Roslin and after parading the Main Street, played selections at the Cross. A collection taken on behalf of the Uniform Fund was considered very satisfactory.
Bearsden Flower Show took place in pleasant weather with a large number of visitors. Music was supplied by the New Kilpatrick Pipe Band under Pipe Major Hendry.
The Invergordon Highland Gathering was held on the spacious lawn in front of Invergordon Castle in perfect weather conditions. The results of the piping competitions wetre, Piobaireachds (Open): The Kincraig Cup. 1. Pipe Major MacDonald, Inverness; 2. M Macpherson, Invershin; 3. Equal. Pipe Sergeant William MacDonald, Tongue and Pipe Major Young, Camerons. Marches (Open): 1. Pipe Major MacDonald; 2. M Macpherson; 3. Pipe Sergeant William MacDonald; 4. Pipe Major Young. Strathspeys and Reels (Open): 1. M Macpherson; 2. PM MacDonald; 3. P Sgt W MacDonald; 4. PM Young.
The members of the Clan MacRae Society, Glasgow, held their annual excursion to Linlithgow. The party, numbering about 120, arrived in Linlithgow about 3 o’clock by train, and headed by the Clan pipe band the excursionists paraded through the town to the Palace grounds. The members, after being conducted over the ancient Palace and Church, proceeded to the west side of the Palace grounds where a sports programme was engaged in. Afterwards an adjournment was made to the Masonic Hall where tea was served and the prizes won at the sports were presented. Prior to departure by the evening train to Glasgow, the pipe band played a splendid programme of music at the Cross where a large crowd had assembled. The outing was favoured with ideal weather and the members thoroughly enjoyed their visit.
In Queensferry in the evening the Dalmeny and District Pipe Band occupied the roof of the Public Baths (this privilege having been kindly granted by the Town Council), where they discoursed a splendid programme of music, which was very much enjoyed by the large concourse of listeners, who were present, the evening being an ideal one for such an event.
Not all reporters were as pleased as another wrote: “The pipe band performances on the Public Baths on Saturday afternoons is quite a draw, but it would be all the greater if they introduced one or two Highland dances.”
8th September
Grangemouth No. 2 company Boys’ Brigade Pipe Band, accompanied by Pipe Major Burns and a few friends, enjoyed a day’s outing at Blackness. The party left Grangemouth by motor bus at 11.30am and returned at 6.30 in the evening, spending a pleasant hour by Linlithgow Loch and palace on the way home. Pipe Major Burns had the assistance of Drum Major John Baird, whose invaluable help in looking after the boys and making them happy was greatly appreciated. Meals were taken picnic fashion, and games and football matches played. Selections played in the village attracted a large and most appreciative audience and the young bandsmen were joined by some boy players from Polmont. They returned home tired but happy after an enjoyable holiday.
At Spittal Feast, Regatta and Sports, during the afternoon and also at the old time sports in the evening, ex pipe Major W F MacMillan DCM rendered selections, while his troupe of local children performed the Highland Fling and Sword Dances to perfection. The programme was as follows: March. 79th’s Farewell to Gibraltar, PM MacMillan. Highland Fling. Highland Airs, PM MacMillan. Sword Dance. Selection, PM MacMillan. Reel of Tulloch. Seann Triubhas. Sword Dance. March, PM MacMillan. Argyll Broadswords.
The coming of age of Mr John Theodore Talbot Fletcher, elder son of Captain and Mrs Fletcher of Saltoun was celebrated all week at Saltoun Hall. On the first day the scholars of East Saltoun school were given a half holiday and spent the afternoon at Saltoun Hall where a programme of sports was carried through. During the afternoon Penston Brass Band and two pipers from the Edinburgh Police Pipe Band gave selections. In the evening there was a display of fireworks.
9th September
The Sphere had a picture of Sir Harry Lauder with a group of young dancers at Cowal.
10th September
A garden party was held at Bonnykelly Lodge, New Pitsligo despite cold winds and rain. There were two marquees set up on the lawn, in one tea was served and in the other members of the Oakbank pipe band gave exhibitions of piping and dancing during the afternoon.
Papers reported that soldiers connected with the 51st (Highland) Division were keenly interested in the forthcoming ceremony at Baeumont Hamel where on Sunday 28th September the memorial to the officers and men of the Division would be unveiled by Marshal Foch.
The Sketch published a picture of Sir Harry Lauder with a caber.
Although it was rather late in the season for open air functions, the promoters of the Eastern Command Sports, held at Croke Park in the evening were lucky in hitting of a day on which the rain held off, though the conditions were not favourable to good class performances, and the attendance was moderate. Number 1 Army band, Number 2 band and the pipe band of the army school of music, under Sgt Major Noble, enhanced the pleasure of the spectators.
11th September
The Dalkeith Advertiser reported: “The members of the recently forms Borthwick Pipe Band are practising diligently under the direction of Pipe Major R Halliday and Drum Major R Hastie, who are untiring in their efforts to bring the band to a high state of efficiency. The bandsmen have been provided with their dress of royal Stuart tartan and glengarry bonnets, in which they make a smart appearance.”
The Argyllshire Gathering Games were on the 10th and 11th September. The list of set tunes had been published by the Piobaireachd Society in January. “Junior Competitions 1924. Competitors in the Junior Competitions will be required to submit the following tunes: Togail bho Tir, Weighing from Land; Blar Bhatairnis, The Battle of Waternish; Cumha Alasdair Dheirg Mhic Mhic Alasdair, Lament for Alasdair Dearg MacDonell of Glengarry. Senior Competitions 1924. Competitors in the Senior Competitions will be required to submit the following tunes: A’Ghlas Mheur, The Finger Lock; Failt’ a Phrionsa, The Prince’s Salute; Cumha Chlaibhers, Lament for the Viscount of Dundee. The above tunes may be obtained from Messrs D Glen & Sons, 8 Greenside Place, Edinburgh or from Mr Peter Henderson, 21 Renfrew Street, Glasgow (Price 6d per tune). Any other setting other than these published by the Society may be played, and the Competitors must, if asked, give the authority for the setting played; but in this case, if the Judges do not think that the authority quoted is sufficient, they may take into consideration, in making their award, the merits of the setting. J P Grant, Major, Hon Secretary, Music Committee. Hayfield, Lerwick. 26th January 1924.”
The Scotsman on 11th September reported: “The weather on the first day was beautifully fine, with bright sunshine and a cool breeze. The attendance was unusually large, many seats in the pavilion being reserved, and the members’ enclosure was also crowded. The stewards of the Gathering are: Brigadier General Cheape, CMG of Tiroran; Mr Graham Campbell, younger of Shirvan; Colonel Campbell Preston of Ardchattan; Colonel Macrae Gilstrap of Eilean Donan; Maclachlan of Maclachlan; and Mr H L Macdonald of Dunach. Among those present…” the usual long list followed.
The Oban Times reported: “The piping contests produced large entries. Great interest was taken in the piobaireachd contest open to all comers, for prizes presented by the Piobaireachd Society. Out of 16 entries, 12 players competed. The performances throughout reached a high level and the judges’ task was by no means easy. John MacDonald, Inverness who has for years occupied a prominent position in the piping world was awarded first place. The piece chosen for him was the Lament for Viscount Dundee and his interpretation was considered well nigh perfect. PM Wm Ross, Edinburgh, who is also one of our leading players, was adjudged a very good second, while PM Yardley, Cambuslang, awarded third prize, also gave a very meritorious performance. The judges were Lt Col Campbell of Kilberry, Mr Graham Campbell of Shirvan and Mr Francis Caird. A piobaireachd playing competition open to all those who had never before won the gold medal of the Highland Society of London brought out an entry of no fewer than 25 players, and the competition which started at 1.15pm did not finish until five minutes past six. The long wait which this entailed on some of the players affected their fingering to some extent. PM Chisholm HLI who secured the first prize, chose Tullochard, of which he gave a careful interpretation. PM D R McLennan, Fort George, who was placed second, is an improving performer and at present bids fair to follow in the footsteps of his famous brother PM George McLennan. His piece was The Vaunting, which is considered a very testing tune. Piper Philip Melville, Glasgow Police, who was placed third, is also a player of promise. His crunluath was exceptionally good. Special mention should also be made of Piper David Ross, Manchester, who gave a fine rendering of I Got a Kiss of the King’s Hand. The judges were Brigadier General Cheape, Major Leckie Ewing, Mr Seton Gordon and Dr Colin Caird. Many will be interested to learn that Piper Angus MacPherson, Invershin, one of the competitors in this contest, had a son playing in the following competition for the Piobaireachd Society prizes, viz Piper Malcolm R MacPherson, who won the first prize, and for a young player shows great promise. Piper Angus MacPherson was playing a very old set of bagpipes which belonged to his father, the celebrated Calum MacPherson, piper to Cluny MacPherson and one of the champion pipers of his day. In the Piobaireachd Society competition, Piper M R MacPherson played McDonnell of Glengarry and his interpretation was held to be of outstanding merit. Pipe Sgt George Cruickshank, Aberdeen, placed second, gave a fine rendering of the same tune. Piper J C Johnston, Glasgow Police and Piper Hugh McTavish, Glasgow, who tied for third place, also played well and showed great promise. Special mention should also be made of Lance Cpl G Greenfield, Colchester, who performed well in the junior marches, strathspeys and reels. Some of the players in this competition might with advantage have chosen more easily played compositions. J C Johnston, Glasgow Police was second and P Sgt George Cruickshank, Aberdeen, third.”
On 12th September the Edinburgh Evening News reported: “The second day’s proceedings the Argyllshire Gathering at Oban yesterday again attracted a large attendance of spectators, among whom were Sir Harry and Lady Lauder.”
The Scotsman continued its coverage on 12th September: “The second day’s Highland games in connection with the Argyllshire Gathering at Oban were not so fortunate in regard to weather as the preceding day. It was fair in the morning, but threatening, and during the forenoon very heavy showers caused a rush for shelter, and some of the piping and athletic competitions were continued in a downpour of rain. It cleared up in the afternoon and after lunch the pavilion and members’ enclosure were well filled. The attendance of the general public was even better than on the preceding day. The stewards were Col Campbell Preston of Ardchattan, Lt Col Macrae Gilstrap of Eilean Donan, Mr H L Macdonald of Dunach, Maclachlan of Maclachlan, the Earl of Breadalbane, Col Ian Campbell, Mr Bruce Campbell, and Major Ritchie. The judges for bagpipe playing were Brig Gen Cheape, Col Campbell of Kilberry, Mr Graham Campbell of Shirvan, Major Leckie Ewing and Mr Seton Gordon. The prize winners were, Marches, Strathspeys and Reels, open only to previous first prize winners at the Gathering: 1. PM Ross, Edinburgh; 2. PM D R MacLennan, Fort George; 3. PM John Macdonald, Inverness. Marches: 1. John Wilson, Edinburgh; 2. PM J Ross, Aberdeen; 3. Ronald MacCallum, Campbeltown; 4. PM Chisholm; 5. M R Macpherson, Invershin. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. PM D R MacLennan, Fort George; 2. John MacDonald, Glasgow; 3. R Brown, Banchory: 4. David Ross, Manchester; 5. P/Sgt Geo Cruickshanks. Marches (Local): 1. Neil Macnicol, Islay; 2. Donald Macgillivray, Kilfinichan; 3. Donald Millar, Ormidale. Strathspeys and Reels (Local):1. John C Johnston, Glasgow: 2. P MacCallum, 8th A and SH; 3. J Scoular, Ardchattan. The dancing results included, Highland fling: l. PM Taylor, Dunblane; 2. PM J A Gordon, Edinburgh; 3 PM D R MacLennan, Fort George. Sword Dance: 1. Piper MacCallum, Campbeltown, 2. PM Taylor, Dunblane; 3. PM D R MacLennan, Fort George.
“A fancy dress ball and dinner was held at the Atholl Palace Hotel, Pitlochry in the evening. The guests were piped in to dinner by Pipe Major Pirnie and Piper MacDonald.”
13th September
A fancy dress parade to raise funds for the Bathgate Public band also included the Torphichen Pipe Band and the pipe band of the 1st Bathgate Company of the Boys’ Brigade.
This letter appeared in the Motherwell Times: “Sir, since Cowal Highland Gathering some scathing comments have been passed in regard to the seemingly unsportsmanlike conduct shown by Dalzell Highland Pipe Band in refusing the prize awarded to them. Let me explain, however, that the competition in which the prize in question was awarded was confined to bands who have never won a prize at Dunoon, and therefore Dalzell, as former prize winners, could not accept the challenge trophy for which they were not eligible to compete. This was the real reason for Pipe Major Hastie’s action in failing to take the custody of the trophy, which led to this mistaken belief on the part of the public. Yours etc, James MacPherson, Secretary.”
The confined event was not played off separately at Cowal. All the bands played in the event and the prizes for bands who had not won prizes before were awarded to the highest placed bands eligible. The list in the programme was marked with those eligible. A letter from the Cowal secretary Mr H S Strafford published a week later explained that there had been an error in the programme.
A letter concerning the results at the Tailteann Games appeared in The Freeman’s Journal. The writer said no replies or explanations had been given to criticisms of the results. There were three possible explanations, one that opinions expressed were not considered worthy of notice, two that the adjudicator had not sufficient confidence in his judgement to attempt a defence of three that the justice of the criticism was admitted but those concerned were desirous that the question should fall into oblivion.
He ended by saying: “For the sake of piping in Ireland it would be well to have the matter cleared up for there is no doubt that the awards were so unexpected as to decide possible competitors at future games to take their talent to where the judgement is more orthodox. When there is no confidence in the adjudication, there is no competition. Antoin ua Cearbhail.”
At the East End Division of Newcastle Boy Scouts Association jamboree Mr T C Frames’ Highland Pipe Band gave excellent selections. A garden fete was held at Langton with music from the Galashiels town band and the Duns British Legion pipe band. The Carron pipe band played at Gairdoch flower show, the Michael Colliery Pipe Band, PM McDonald played at the football match between East Fife and Dumbarton and Lasswade pipe band played before and after the match between Bonnyrigg and District and Glasgow Rangers.
The Wellington Local Amateur Society’s 31st annual Flower Show was held in the band room of the Wellington Reformatory. Mr John Craster’s prizes for piping and dancing by the boys of the Wellington Pipe Band were awarded to, Piping: 1. Alex Mitchell; 2. Edward Cockburn; 3. Robert Ferguson. Dancing: 1. Thomas Charters; 2. Robert Ellis; 3. Robert Ferguson.
The Hawick Ex-Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Pipe Band paid a visit to Melrose in the evening and gave selections on the Weirhill and in the Market Place. A collection was taken for their funds.
Tayside Pipe Band made a tour of East Newport in the afternoon, with the object of raising funds for band accessories. The sum of £9.5s was collected.
Wallacestone pipe band played at the 65th annual Avonbridge Flower Show and Glenboig Pipe Band played at a gala in Coatbridge.
The weather was described as unkind, with rain falling heavily all afternoon, at Kinlochleven Games. Results for piping were, Marches: 1. A Patterson, Fort William; 2. E Cameron, Fort William; 3. J Lancaster, KInlochleve. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. A Patterson; 2. E Cameron; 3. J Lancaster and G Grant equal.Major MacLennan, Glencoe House and the Rev D C MacRae, The Manse, Duror, judged the piping and dancing.
14th September
In Dundee about a hundred members of the Seaforth Highlanders’ Association attended a church service in Albert Square U F Church. The men, most of whom wore their decorations, paraded at the Seaforth Club in Park Place, and, headed by the MacKenzie Pipe Band, marched via Nethergate and Reform Street to Albert Square.
The MacKenzie Pipe Band had been founded in 1918 by Pipe Major James MacKenzie. Many years later in 1958 they amalgamated with another Dundee band the Caledonian Pipe Band which had been in existence since 1902, to form MacKenzie Caledonian.
16th September
The Hippodrome, Devonport was showing a new musical play ‘Irish and Proud of it’. The performance included the famous Kilty Lassies’ Irish Pipe Band.
17th September
The annual meeting of the Kilrea Apprentice Boys LOL was held with a large attendance of members. The annual accounts showed the lodge to be considerably in debt, owing to the heavy expense incurred in providing uniforms for the pipe band.
The military funeral of Sgt Major Andrew H Fraser MM late of Seaforth Highlanders took place at Lossiemouth. At the graveside PM Matheson DCM played The Flowers of the Forest and Drum Major Neil Campbell sounded the Last Post.
A dance was held in Newbyres Hall, Gorebridge in aid of the funds of the Gorebridge, Arnistomn and District Poipe Band.
Members of Comrie and District Piping Association met in the evening at the Institute to bid farewell to one of their members, Cpl Piper Daniel MacGregor who was sailing for Australia on Saturday 20th, accompanied by his bride of a few days. He had been one of the pioneers of the band and had assisted greatly in bringing the band to its present state of high efficiency. In addition he had been an energetic member of the committee. Presentations were made by Chairman John Turnbull and Pipe Major MacFarlane.
An evening amateur athletics sports meeting in Duns included selections at intervals from the British Legion Pipe Band.
18th September
The Grimsby Daily Telegraph reported: “Pipe Major McTavish of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders who is taking part in the torchlight tattoo at Wembley is an old member of the Newcastle United football team. He was born at Fort George near Inverness, his father also being in the Argyll and Sutherlands. His early football experience was gained with Inverness Thistle, a useful junior team, which afterwards produced another capital forward for the cup holders, namely Tom MacDonald. McTavish was with Newcastle for the seasons immediately prior to the war, and appeared regularly in the senior eleven. On the outbreak of war he enlisted and did not return to civilian life after the armistice.”
The Aberdeen Press and Journal reported on the Gillies’ Ball at Balmoral, held the previous evening. The dance programme included several national dances, such as the Highland Reel, Eightsome Reel and Reel of Tulloch for which music was provided by PM Henry Forsyth, the King’s Piper.
The tune requirements for the Northern Meeting were the same as those for the Argyllshire Gathering. The meeting took place on the 18th and 19th September. The weather on the morning of the first day was described as wet and very boisterous and events began under depressing conditions. However later in the day there was sunshine and conditions were comparatively pleasant, despite high winds and a damp ground. There was a large attendance and the grandstand was well filled with the County families and their friends. The second day had good weather. There were 20 competitors for the Gold Medal and the results were, Highland Society of London’s gold medal and prizes presented by Piobaireachd Society: 1. Allan M Calder, Edinburgh (£8) Lament for Alasdair Dearg MacDonell of Glengarry; 2. PM J D Macdonald, Scots Guards, The Battle of Waternish; 3. Pipe Sergeant William Macdonald, Lovat Scouts, Lament for Alasdair Dearg MacDonell of Glengarry; 4. Malcolm Macpherson, Invershin. Marches, 18 played: 1. Lance Corporal G Greenfield, 2nd Royal Scots, Colonel MacFadyen of Melfort; 2. and 3. PM D Matheson, Elgin, and PM John Ross, Gordon Highlanders (equal); 4 Allan M Calder, Edinburgh. Marches (boys under 17 years of age): PM Kean, Queen Victoria School, Dunblane; 2. Boy Gibbons, Gordon Highlanders; 3. Corporal Frank Louie, Dunblane. Gold clasp for attachment to Highland Society of London’s medal, nine played: 1. John Macdonald, Inverness, The Fingerlock, (£l0); 2. and 3. (£8), Pipe Major R Reid, 7th HL and PM William Ross, Edinburgh, equal; 4. (£3) P M Robert Meldrum, Inverness. Strathspeys and Reels: 1. (£4) Lance Corporal G Greenfield, 2nd Royal Scots; 2. (£3) PM Robert Reid; 3. (£2) Allan M Calder, Edinburgh 4. David Ross, Leverhulme, Manchester. March, Strathspey and Reel (silver star presented by the Scottish Pipers’ Society): 1. PM William Ross, Edinburgh; 2. John Macdonald, Inverness; 3. PM R Reid; 4. PM J D Macdonald, Scots Guards. The piping was judged by Major J P Grant, yr of Rothiemurchus, Mr Somerled Macdonald, Mr Francis Caird, jun and Col Fraser, CMG, Leckmelm.
•Allan MacLeod Calder was born in Edinburgh in 1903, son of Hugh Calder (1866-1937) who was born in Sutherland and was Pipe Major of the Edinburgh Police 1910-1920. In a competing career spanning only five years Allan Calder achieved both Gold Medals, the Argyllshire Gathering in 1923 and the Northern Meeting in 1924 and many other prizes, in addition to graduating from Edinburgh University with a degree in agriculture. After university he joined the staff of the East of Scotland College of Agriculture, later becoming Inspector of the Department of Agriculture for Scotland. He died in Edinburgh in 1985.
Lord and Lady Lovat entertained a large party at Beaufort Castle for the shooting and the Northern Meeting. A ball was held in the castle ballroom. Mrs Logan’s band from Inverness discoursed music, relieved at intervals by ex-Pipe Major A Ross, Scots Guards.
A whist drive organised by the Camelon Pipe Band Whist Club was held in the Templars’ Hall, Camelon.
Radio programmes on the Edinburgh station included from 8pm until closedown at 10.45pm Scotch Night. At intervals during the evening there were sets from the pipe band of the 5th Royal Scots, PM James Robertson. Their sets were: Highland Wedding, Monymusk, Mrs MacLeod of Raasay. Mrs Elder, Corn Rigs, Delvinside, The Flagon. Far O’er the Sea, The Falls of Lorna, Highland Whisky, High Road to Linton. Road to the Isles, Fiddler’s Joy, Fairy Dance. Dumbarton’s Drums.
Newport had the opportunity during the afternoon of hearing its recently formed pipe band, when a march of the burgh was undertaken with a view to augmenting their funds.
Another update on the Stonehaven Pipe Band gave the total raised as £78.17s 10d.
Campbeltown Pipe Band played through the village then gave a demonstration of piping and dancing at the Territorial Hall, Southend. A dance followed in the hall.
In Lochearnhead there was a whist drive and dance at the Institute Hall. Pipe music was supplied by Mr McDiarmid snr.
19th September
Wallacestone Pipe Band paraded the Maddiston district in the afternoon prior to a sale of work in aid of the Maddiston Hall fund.
20th September
The Campbeltown Courier congratulated members of B company, 8th Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders on their success at the Argyllshire Gathering. Piper P C McCallum was first in the sword dance and second in the local strathspey and reel and Piper R McCallum was third in the open marches.
A Garden Fete in the grounds of Arniston House included selections from the recently formed Borthwick Pipe Band led by PM Robert McNab Halliday.
The Army Athletic Association meeting at Croke Park included a special recital during the afternoon by nos 1 and 2 brass and reed bands and the drum and pipe band of the Army School of Music.
The villages of Mid Calder, East Calder and Kirknewton were visited by the West Calder and District Pipe Band. Selections were rendered and a collection taken on behalf of the dress fund.
The Carnforth Kinema in Lancashire advertised Law of the Lawless, and Highland Dancing with Bagpipe and Drum by PM D Campbell and Drummer J MacDonald. They also advertised Gladys Cooper and Ivor Novello in Bonnie Prince Charlie, with PM D Campbell, Cameron Highlanders, playing selections during the screening of the film.
At the match between Dundela and Lambeg Rangers selections were played during the interval by the Castlereagh Pipe Band and at the match between Glentoran and Distillery the Armstrong Memorial Pipe Band played before the game and at the interval.
At the Oban cinema house all week there was a series of films descriptive of the Argyllshire Gathering. These showed the piping, dancing and heavy athletes, the procession of the stewards, judges and competitors, the crowds in Soroba Road, the arrival of the steamers at the North Pier in the forenoon, their departure in the evening and the scenes within the railway station.
Musselburgh Swimming Club held a concert and presentation of annual prizes at Inveresk Parish Hall. The entertainment included a selection from the town pipe band.
The Oban Times reported on the wedding at Kilmichael Glassary of PM Donald R MacLennan, Seaforth Highlanders, and Mis Jane MacCallum. PM George S MacLennan, late Gordon Highlanders, brother of the groom, was the best man. After the ceremony the guests, to the strains of pipe music, set of in a fllet of motor cars, to Poltalloch Victoria Hall, Kilmartin, where cake and ewine was served, followed by toasts and speeches. When the hall had been cleared, after which dancing commenced to music supplied by Piper Lachlan MacLean, Kilmartin Hotel, Piper MacLean, Craignish, and on pianoforte and violin Messrs MacGregor and Stewart. At intervals during the evening refreshments were served and dancing and merry making interspersed with song, continued with zest. The future home of the couple would be Fort George.
The North Tyne and Redesdale show at Bellingham included competitions for Northumbrian small pipes. There were four competitors in the open class which was won by Mr G H Hedley. Miss G Grey was second and Mr Anthony Charlton third. The winner of the intermediate class was Mr R C Allen and the winner of the beginners’ class was Master Robson, with Miss G Grey and Mr E Merrick equal second.
Denny and Dunipace Memorial Pipe Band played selections during the afternoon at a fete held at Glowerorum Golf Club.
21st September
The Fauldhouse War Memorial anniversary service included music from the Shotts Foundry Silver band, two buglers from Redford Barracks and The Flowers of the Forest played by the Fauldhouse Pipe Band.
Forfar Children’s Sports Ground was opened by the Countess of Strathmore. During the afternoon there was music from Forfar Instrumental and Pipe Bands.
23rd September
The formation of the Fifeshire Pipe Bands Association was reported in the Dundee Courier and later in the Fife Free Press. A meeting took place at Thornton when representatives of sixteen bands took part and rules and regulations governing pipe band contests in Fife were drawn up. The office bearers were President: Mr McDiarmid, Dunfermline; Vice-President: Mr Glencross, Dunfermline; Secretary: Mr Martin, Cardenden; Treasurer: Mr Nisbet.
25th September
A big Armageddon night at the Countess Picture House, Saltcoats was reported. The film was shown under the patronage of the British Legion and the services of the Boys Scouts and the Ardrossan Pipe Band had been secured. Brigadier General Walker DSO CMG addressed the audience and everything went exceptionally well with profitable results for the theatre.
In Perthshire a piping revival was reported. Under the auspices of the Pipers’ Association classes were to be formed during the winter for tuition in piping and drumming. Pipe Major Glen assisted by members of the band would be in charge. The secretary, Councillor Bain had already received a number. No fee was to be charged and classes would commence at the Armoury on Wednesday the following week.
At the Woolwich Empire the revue ‘What Ho’ was presented. The final scene, the ‘Tartan Ball’, was very effective and the Fordyce Family pleased with their Highland Pipe Band.
At a meeting of the directors of the Oakbank Industrial School it was announced that Sir James Simpson had forwarded from India a gift of a panther skin for the bass drummer of the pipe band.
A meeting of the Montrose Highland Committee reported on the finances for the year which showed a loss of £8.12s 9d, although they still had a credit balance of £178 18s 1d. The bad weather had reduced attendance at the games. A vote of £5 was made to the town band and £2 to the pipe band for their services.
At a meeting the 13th Forfarshire (Rossie) Scoutmaster reported on considerable progress with the troop and that the boys were keen and had worked well. The pipe band had made excellent progress during the year and their services at various scout functions had been highlly appreciated.
26th September
A small advertisement read: “Bothwell Park and District pipe band has openings for a few good pipers, also bass and tenor drummers. Apply at Infant School, Bothwell Park, on Friday evenings, between the hours of 7 and 9 o’clock.”
Uphall Pipe Band played before and during the interval of the match between Broxburn United and Arbroath.
Torphichen Pipe Band played at a garden fete at Wallhouse, Bathgate.
Meetings of the 2nd Wishaw company, Boys’ Brigade resumed. Various activities, including the pipe band were mentioned in the announcement.
St Aidan’s CLB pipe band left Belfast by steamer for Oxford where they were to represent the Church Lad’s Brigade at the English Church Congress. This was the second occasion on which a similar distinction had been conferred as they had the honour of taking part at the opening ceremony of Liverpool Cathedral by the King in June.
A meeting of the members of Polmont War Memorial Boys’ Pipe Band was held at which it was decided to take steps to supply the boys with full-size sets of bagpipes.
At this time many Boys’ Brigade and other juvenile bands played what were often called half size or three quarter size pipes. These were sold at a lower price and makers hoped that the young pipers would later buy full size pipes.
In Lurgan the Special Constabulary No 3 Platoon B were entertained at Brownlow House. Tea was served, followed by a musical programme contributed by the members. St intervals there were selections from the pipe band.
Willowfield Pipe Band played at the match between Linfield and Queen’s Island.
The Reay Sports Concert took place in the Drill Hall in the evening. The programme included bagpipe selection from PM MacKay and Pipers G Asher, Thurso, J MacKay, Halladale and David W MacKay, Sandside.
Borthwick Pipe Band organised a dance in the local hall. The music for the opening dance was played by PM Robert McNab Halliday and Piper P Hennesy and thereafter dancing was to the strains of a jazz band which included Drum Major Robert Hastie and songs were rendered by others. The MC was Drummer Peter Toole. Mrs Stuart, Borthwick Castle paid a visit to the dance and remained for a short time.
27th September
The 86th Langholm Show was held with Langholm Town and pipe bands in attendance.
At Burntisland Bazaar and Carnival there were selections during the afternoon from Burntisland Silver Band and the pipe band.
The Fraserburgh BB Pipe Band played at the match between Fraserburgh and Peterhead. Their selections were Colonel Cruden, Louden’s Bonnie Woods and Braes, Sleepy Maggie; Barren Rocks of Aden, Ariss Castle, Miss Girdle; Green Hills of Tyrol.
In West Calder the local pipe band paraded the village and discoursed some excellent selections. The band presented a very fine appearance as it proceeded on its way. A collection was taken up on behalf of band funds.
A Masonic bazaar and carnival in Burntisland raised £520 for the Benevolent Fund. Burntisland Silver Band and the Pipe Band played selections during the afternoon.
A Masonic sale at Lodge St Fothad’s in Fife included the combined Lochgelly and Auchterderran pipe bands who played through the village in the afternoon and thence to to hall.
The Oban Times reported: “Over 300 members of the Gaelic Society of Hamilton, Canada thoroughly enjoyed a delightful outing at their annual picnic in Dundas Driving Park on Saturday 16th August. Chief Duncan McCallum greeted the guests with true Scottish Hospitality. Hugh McKellar and Alex McMillan were in charge of the programme and made everything run smoothly. The piping and dancing competitions were of high class quality. They were judged by Albert Johnston, pipe major of the famous Belleville Pipe Band and Norman MacPherson judged the juvenile piping. Pipe Major Archie Pollock played the accompaniments for the dancing. Flora and Sandy MacDonald entertained the crowd with topical songs and Miss Chrissie MacLeod, Toronto, sang some fine old Gaelic melodies. The results of the contests were: Juvenile piping – Marion Weston, Robert Allan. Senior piping: A McGregor, W Drever and D McPherson. Sword dance: Violet Sheddon, Marion Watson and Robert Allan. Sheann Truibhas Marion Watson, Violet Watson and Robert Allan.”
This letter was in the same paper: “Rosegarth, Dunoon, 22nd September. Sir, In view of the interest in the performance of the Oban Pipe Band at Cowal Gathering, doubtless a few more particulars relative thereto will be of use to those most concerned.
“At the outset I would say that the band’s performance was most meritorious. It must be remembered that Oban was up against the finest pipe bands in the world, some of whom have striven for premier honours for a dozen years, and as in the case of Millhall have at length been rewarded.
“A closer scrutiny of the judges’ sheets reveals the fact that as against the five bands ahead of Oban in the confined contest (Oban was 6th), Oban lost 3½ points in execution. But for this defect Oban band would have been in the prize list. The same weakness is shown in the Open contest, the band securing 28 points out of a possible 45. In other respects the results show a fair average.
“The same remarks apply to Inveraray, but to a greater degree. It should be noted, with regard to the other County band, the 8th A & SH their points were advanced from 77 last year to 81 at the last gathering. This improvement is doubtless owing to the opportunity provided for combined practice a few days previous to the Games. If similar conditions prevail next year the prospects of the Argylls securing the Argyll Shield comes well within the range of probability.
“May I now state that owing to the kindness of Colonel Walter Scott of New York, trophies will be put up next year for side drumming and bass drumming. As drumming is now acquiring more importance, this may lead to an increase in the number of points allocated to same. I am etc H S Strafford, Hon Secy, Cowal Gathering.”
The pipe band of the Queen Victoria School, Dunblane, PM Taylor played at the Northumberland and Berwickshire Border Shepherds’ Show.
28th September
A concert and ball was held in Ballinderry Bridge, Tyrone, with proceeds going to the Emmet Irish War-Pipe band.
A concert under the auspices of the Gorgie and District Pipe Band, PM Alex Rae, was held at the Tivoli Picture House in Gorgie. In addition to the pipe band there were solos and selections from the British Legion Ex-Service’s men’s Military band and a splendid programme of artistes.
St Malachy’s Pipe Band, Derry played at the Newtoncunningham athletic sports and challenge hurling match.
The Perth branch of the Black Watch Association held a service at St John’s Church, on the 9th anniversary of the battle of Loos. At the conclusion the Last Post was sounded by Drummer Kerr and Lochaber No More was played by Pipe Major Knowles.
In Kent, at the invitation of the 1st Crofton Park (St Hilda’s) Troop, the Deptford Association of Boy Scouts attended morning service at St Hilda’s Church. The parade, which was led by the pipe band of the 5th Brockley Troop, was under the command of DSM Bryant, and comprised some 320 officers, scouts and cubs.
In Kirkliston the 1st Kirkliston Company Girl Guides and Brownies, accompanied by the 1st Kirkliston Boys’ Brigade held a church parade to the Established Church. The parade was headed by the brigade pipe band who played them from the school to the church. After the service the companies reassembled in the Square and marched to the school, where they were dismissed.