Grampian Police Pipe Band Announce New Appointments

Grampian Police Pipe Band are delighted to announce the appointment of a new Band President.

Deputy Chief Constable Mr John McNab has been appointed to the role of Band President – a post left vacant when former Deputy Chief Constable Mr Patrick Shearer was promoted to Chief Constable of Dumfries and Galloway Constabulary.

Mr. McNab said: "Grampian Police Pipe Band have a long and distinguished history of representing not just the Forces, who over the years have covered this area, but indeed the north and northeast of Scotland.  Just last year they undertook a number of events to celebrate reaching their centenary.  The Pipe Band are an important asset to the Force and it is a privilege to be asked to undertake this role.  I look forward to working with the management, players and other members of the Band."   

New Appointment, Pipe Sergeant Colin Walker receiving trophies for the band at the Mini Bands last month.

Other new appointments to the Band include Colin Walker, a Chief Inspector within the Force, who be  Pipe Sergeant and assistant to the Pipe Major, Drew Sinclair.  

Colin has a wealth of experience in the Pipe Band world having previously played with the Gordon Highlanders and been Pipe Sergeant with Bucksburn and District Pipe Band.  He most recently played for Tayside Police Pipe Band.

The Band have also signed a number of new local players. 

Mr Mike Zanre (formerly from Dysart and Dundonald Pipe Band), Mr Dave Patterson (formerly of Dysart & Dundonald Pipe Band) Mr Ali Bremner (formerly of Bucksburn and District Pipe Band), Miss Laura Williamson (formerly Tayside Police Pipe Band),  Mr Cameron Sharpe (formerly of Dysart and Dundonald Pipe Band) and Mr Scott Brown (formerly of Rubislaw Pipe Band) all join the Grampian Police Band.  

In addition, Constable Scott Brander (formerly of Bucksburn & District) joins the drum corp, whilst Constable Hannah Moneagle returns to the Pipe corps along with Sergeant CJ MacLeod, who joins in a support role.

Pipe Major Sinclair said: "I am delighted to have recruited such experienced and quality players for this coming season, which will see us compete at all five major competitions for the first time in three years, following a lengthy period of re-building.  I am particularly delighted at the appointment of Chief Inspector Colin Walker as Pipe Sergeant.  His ability, experience and enthusiasm have already had a very positive impact.  I'm especially looking forward to working with both him and our Leading Drummer, Nicky Gibson, in order to get this band competing at the highest level and realising our full potential."

The Band Manager, Chief Inspector Malcolm McMillan, said: "The Band have put in a lot of hard work over the winter months and we are looking forward to the season ahead with great enthusiasm.  With the appointment of our new President, the continued support of our partners, The Balmoral Group, and the new players and support roles, this is a very exciting time for Grampian Police Pipe Band. "

The Band still have capacity to recruit experienced snare drummers and are keen to hear from anyone wishing to play in the successful competing Band.  Anyone interested in joining them can get in touch by emailing PipeBand2@grampian.pnn.police.uk