The Grampian Police Pipe Band season has ended on a high note.

The band was crowned Champion of Champions at the weekend after coming second at the final major event in the piping calendar.

Band Manager Inspector Murray Main said: "This was a fantastic way to end the season and we've exceeded all our expectations.

"The band will now enjoy a short break before the hard work starts to prepare for next season, when we hope to continue our success."

The Band came second in the Grade 2 category at the Cowal Gathering in Dunoon, Argyll on Saturday (August 28).  The event, billed as the largest Highland games in the world, attracted a total of 109 bands from across the UK and the rest of the world.

The event is the last of the five major competitions, with the aggregate scores being added up to find the top band.

The event even attracted a Time Lord this year - the seventh Doctor, actor Sylvester McCoy, who is from Dunoon, returned as this year's Chieftain to hand out the prizes.

The Band played a March Strathspey and Reel and were placed 3rd by both piping judges and also by the drumming judge.  They were placed 1st in ensemble.

The Band's prestigious Champion of Champions title has added to the RSPBA's North of Scotland Champion of Champion's title for both Grade 2 and Grade 1, which the band secured by winning the final local competition in Aden Park, Mintlaw, Aberdeenshire, the previous week.

Pipe Major Drew Sinclair said he was delighted with the Cowal result particularly given that the band notched up its highest position for drumming this season and came first for overall ensemble.  

He added: "I'll shortly be getting together with Murray, Colin and Nicky to look at areas where we need to strengthen the band so we can go on to even better things next season."