Grampian Police Pipe Band ends centenary on a high note

Grampian Police Pipe Band brought the curtain down on their successful centenary year with a civic dinner hosted by the Lord and Lady Provost and Council of the City of Aberdeen in recognition of the Bands important ambassadorial role over 100 years.

The Band, who were formed in October 1907, attended the event at the Town House, Aberdeen on Saturday 8 December 2007, along with partners and other members of the Force.  Elected representatives of the Joint Police Board were also present along with Chief Constable Pat Shearer, Dumfries and Galloway, Chief Constable Peter Wilson, Fife and retired Grampian Chief Constable Alistair G Lynn, all of whom have supported the Band throughout the years.  

During the evening, the Lord Provost paid tribute to the Band and it's members and acknowledged the significant part the Band had played not just for Grampian Police, but equally for the City of Aberdeen and the northeast of Scotland.

Chief Constable Mr. Colin McKerracher outlined how important public relations were to Grampian Police and spoke of his pride that Grampian Police had such a strong and successful Band which he said was testimony to the efforts of not just the players but equally the commitment of their families, who played an equally important role.  He also thanked the Balmoral Group for their continued support of the Band.

During the evening a number of presentations were made and the Band were delighted to receive a framed tribute from the North East of Scotland Branch of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association.

Further presentations and awards were presented to:-

Presentation to Mr. Pat Shearer, Chief Constable Dumfries and Galloway.

In addition to his previous roles within Grampian Police, Pat Shearer was the Band President for several years until departing for his current post earlier this year. 

To mark his time, leadership and support of the Band, Chief Constable McKerracher presented Pat Shearer with a gift.

Presentation to Mr. Iain McCombie, retired Superintendent.

Mr. Iain McCombie was the Band Manager for a number of years before  retiring from the service in 2004.  During this time Iain displayed exceptional commitment towards the Band and remains a firm supporter and friend of the Band and it's members. 

In November this year, Iain was a guest speaker at the Band Reunion which was attended by over 120 ex players and guests, including his father, Mr. Alex McCombie who was himself a Police Officer and was a side drummer within the Band during the late 1940's and throughout the 1950's.        

To mark his friendship, commitment and dedication to the Band, Chief Constable McKerracher presented Iain McCombie with a gift.

Presentation to Mr. Alex Simpson, Constable and Pipe Sergeant.

Alex Simpson joined Grampian Police in 1986, and joined Grampian Police Pipe Band three years later.  For the past 11 years he has consistently served the Band in the role of Pipe Sergeant, number 2 to Pipe Major Drew Sinclair. 

In order to diversify his career within Grampian Police, Alex identified a need to reduce his current level of commitment given to the Band and as a direct consequence, he notified the Band Management of his desire to step down from the role of Pipe Sergeant.  He will however, remain an important part of the Pipe Corps.

To mark his commitment and dedication to the Band, Chief Constable McKerracher presented Alex Simpson with a gift. 

Award and Presentation to Dr. Ewen McLeod, GP at Ballater and Piper.

Grampian Police Pipe Band would simply not be able to function were it not for the support of civilian members of the Band.  Ewen McLeod is one such civilian member who has played with the Band for 28 years.  Ewen's father was a serving Officer.

To mark the significant achievement and in recognition of his commitment and dedication towards the Band and Grampian Police over 28 years, Chief Constable McKerracher presented Ewen McLeod with a gift and a Certificate of Merit.   

Presentation to Grampian Police.

Over the years Aberdeen City Police Pipe Band now Grampian Police Pipe Band have received considerable support, guidance and commitment from their parental organisations.  

To mark this support, guidance and commitment over 100 years,  Chief Constable McKerracher was presented with a gift from the Band.

The Band Manager Chief Inspector Malcolm McMillan said later, "We are honored to receive such acknowledgements, particularly from the Lord Provost, Council and Chief Constable and I'm delighted that the efforts of the current players has been highlighted.  This year has seen many high's including playing for the Queen at Balmoral earlier in the year and more recently the reunion attended by over 120 ex members and guests.  We have also managed a full programme of events which has seen the Band play all over the North and Northeast of Scotland". 

"However, all this would not be possible were it not for the efforts of the current Band members and their families and it is fitting to see the centenary year ending with them honored in this manner."