Grampian Police Pipe Band Leading Drummer Marc Johnson has quit the Band just weeks after the Band won promotion to Grade 1.

Marc took over the reigns earlier this year following the resignation of Nicky Gibson and sighted work and family commitments were behind his decision.  He had been a playing member of the drum corps since June 2008.

Marc took the Police drum corps from mid table into one of the best corps in Grade 2 during the 2011 season. 

Band Manager Chief Inspector Murray Main said, "Marc did very well in his season in charge."

"But he found the pressure on his time to prepare the corps for Grade 1 simply too much.  He was honest with us and we respect that decision."

"We hope to have a new Leading Drummer in place as soon as possible."

"Marc leaves the Band with our best wishes." 

The 35-strong band, led by Pipe Major Drew Sinclair and Assistant Pipe Major Colin Walker is made up of police officers, police staff, as well as civilians from all over the north of Scotland, who all give up their spare time to practice twice a week in Aberdeen.

The Band are currently recruiting talented players for the coming season.  Anyone interested in joining the Band, can do so through the website or by telephoning 0845 600-5-700.

ENDS