More than 20,000 people converged on Forres on Saturday as the town staged the European Pipe Band Championships for the second year running.
A total of 117 bands and 46 drum majors travelled from as far afield as Australia, Switzerland and the USA.
The grade one band title went to Inveraray and District, with Pipe Major Stuart Liddell lifting the musicians’ first trophy since their promotion to the premier grade in 2010.
Scottish Power took the runners-up spot, finishing just one point behind.
The grade one drumming title went to St Laurence O’Toole from Eire.
More than 100 people gave up their free time to help organise the event and make sure Grant Park was looking its best.
Ian Widdowson is the chairman of Forres Events Ltd, the voluntary group set up by local residents.
He said he was delighted with the second championship in the town’s three year run as hosts.
“Despite a bit of drizzle at the start we think our numbers were up to our target of 20,000 and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves enormously,” he said.
“The playing was magnificent and it was a particularly nice touch and extremely moving to have the grade one bands play Flower of Scotland in tribute to the late Roy Williamson of the Corries who wrote the tune and who lived opposite the park in Forres.
“The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association and the competitors were delighted with the organisation of the event, which is really gratifying.
“I want to offer a huge thank you for the support of all the volunteers, sponsors, competitors, stallholders and those who were either working on the day or just out and about enjoying the day.”
The youngest competitor was Brodie Zineldin, who lives at Westhill and goes to Smithton Primary School.
The schoolboy, who turned seven last week and plays drums with the Ross and Cromarty Pipe and Drum band, said: “It was great to be playing with so many other people. I definitely want to go back next year.”
His dad Jamie said: “Brodie has loved pipe music since he was two years old. He always asks to have it playing when we’re in the car.”
Poor early morning weather meant the dancing had to be moved from the outdoor arena into Applegrove primary school.
Organiser Christine Lacey MBE said: “It’s a pity that the weather wasn’t better at the start but it was especially important for the smaller children to keep them warm and dry.
“It’s a shame that the crowds didn’t get to see them, but we did what we had to do and the competition went well.”
Police Inspector Paul McCruden was glad to report a stress-free event.
He said: “It was a fantastic day for Forres. Everybody seemed to have a good time and the day was enjoyed by everyone.”
His views were echoed by Steve Robertson of Saltaire security who had 30 people working on car parking and security duties.
He said: “It was another fantastic day for Forres and nice to see the sun did shine on us.
“The guys have worked hard to make sure everyone has a safe and enjoyable day – but they managed to enjoy it all too.”
Piping and Drumming Results:
Grade 1 Band – Inveraray and District
Grade 1 Drumming – St Laurence O’Toole
Grade 2 Band – Buchan Peterson
Grade 2 Drumming – Buchan Peterson
Grade 3A Band – Johnstone
Grade 3A Drumming – Johnstone
Grade 3B Band – 6th/8th Dundee Boys Brigade
Grade 3B Drumming – Royal Burgh of Annan
Grade Juvenile Band – Dollar Academy
Grade Juvenile Drumming – Dollar Academy
Grade 4A Band – 2622 (Highland) Squadron RAF
Grade 4A Drumming – 2622 (Highland) Squadron RAF
Grade 4B Band – Burntisland and District
Grade 4B Drumming – Burntisland and District
Grade Novice Band – West Lothian Schools
Grade Novice Drumming – George Watons’ College
Best trade stall – Creations tartan bodices.
Highland Dancing results:
Beginners Category
Highland – Katie Taylor
National – Katie Taylor
Novice Category
Highland – Sophie Macrae
National – Abbie Kellas
Intermediate Category
Under 9s – Rianne Nicholson
Under 10s – Tia Anderson
Under 12s Premier – Kern Robertson
Under 16s Premier – Abigail Adamiec