Grampian Police Pipe Band is delighted to announce the appointment of their new Leading Drummer.

Mr. Marc Johnson (26) had been in charge on an interim basis since the resignation of Nicky Gibson last month, but will now take over the role full time. 

Marc, a Manager at ASDA, Garthdee, Aberdeen, said he is relishing the task ahead of him.  He has considerable experience and knowledge of both the local and national pipe band and drumming scene. He said: "Grampian Police Pipe Band is one of the best Grade 2 Pipe Bands in the world and I'm delighted to accept the role."

"I'm really looking forward to the challenge of building on the successes we have experienced over the last couple of years both as a drum corps and as a band." 

Marc has come through the ranks of Grampian Police Pipe Band and was deputy leading drummer under Nicky.  He has previously played and taught at a number of local Bands and played with Tayside Police Pipe Band during their successful years in Grade 2 and in Grade 1.

He added: "Nicky Gibson did a terrific job and I will do my best to build on what he achieved."

The Band Manager, Inspector Murray Main said:  "It is a pleasure to welcome Marc into the role."  He confirmed there had been a number of individuals who had expressed an interest in the role, locally and from further a field, but added, "Marc will bring strength and stability and he now has the opportunity to insert his own influence on the drum corps."

In 2010, Grampian Police Pipe Band completed a highly successful season by being crowned overall Champions of Champions in Grade 2.  They also took the Scottish Championships title as well as the prestigious North of Scotland Champions of Champions title. 

Pipe Major Drew Sinclair also expressed his delight at Marc's appointment and said he was already working with him to get the band ready for forthcoming local and major competitions.  

PM Sinclair said, "In Marc, we have an excellent young leading drummer who will lead an improving drum corps into the forthcoming competition season." 

Speaking about the year ahead, PM Sinclair said: "This is a really important year for the band and we are absolutely determined to build upon the success of last year." 

Anyone wishing to get in touch with the band can do so at www.grampianpolicepipeband.com or on

0845 600-5-700. 

The band presently comprises of thirty-five playing members, of which eight are in the Police Force. The remaining members are civilians, drawn from all walks of life.