MSP pipes up over threat to police band

Published on Saturday 27 June 2009 19:44

A NATIONALIST MSP is to take his concerns for the future of a police pipe band to the force's chief constable.

SNP West of Scotland MSP Stuart McMillan will take part in a delegation tomorrow which will present a petition to Strathclyde Police's Chief Constable over planned cuts for the force's pipe band.

They will submit the petition to force headquarters in Glasgow.

Concerns were raised after it emerged that the world famous pipe band would only play at two of the five main piping competitions of the year.

The petition, sponsored by the Piping Times magazine, has more than 3,000 signatures.

McMillan, a piper himself, said: "I am deeply concerned about this issue for what is one of Scotland's most famous pipe bands.

"The band have been at the top of their game for years and it would be a terrible mistake to see them downgraded.

"Not only are they top class players but they serve as ambassadors for the Scottish Police, Scotland and piping when playing here and abroad.

"The presence of the band has also undoubtedly increased good relations within the communities they work in.

"In essence it is a matter of confusion as to why the largest force in Scotland is not willing to continue the important work their band do.

"This is why I am helping present this petition and hope that the Chief Constable will help facilitate a reconsideration.

"There has been great concern across the piping community and further afield and I hope that the Chief Constable will take heed of these concerns."