Praise for Inveraray and Oban Pipe Bands and gold Paralympian

Before a recent council meeting, Councillor Douglas Philand (Independent, Mid Argyll) paid tribute to Inveraray and District and Oban Pipe Bands on their recent successes at the world championships.

Helensburgh duo, dancer Eilidh Gammons and wheelchair tennis ace Gordon Reid, also featured in the provost’s opening remarks ahead of formal business starting.

The council meeting took place on Thursday September 26.

The provost said: “Argyll and Bute truly has some world class talent, and that is official.

“On August 17, Inveraray and District Pipe Band became world champions. The band’s success in recent years has been absolutely incredible under the leadership of Pipe Major Stuart Liddell.

“This is coupled with the sheer talent of the pipers and drummers. It was a pleasure to join them as they played on Inveraray Front Green on August 31.

“We must also pay tribute to Oban Pipe Band, who also brought a world title home as winners on grade 3A. This is very well deserved recognition and I understand they are also grade 3A champions for 2023/24.”

He added: “Eilidh Gammons, from Helensburgh, took her second world title at the Cowal Highland Gathering on August 31.

“She was junior world champion, following on from a win last year. I am delighted that one of those coveted trophies is staying here in Argyll and Bute.

“Gordon Reid also added to his impressive tally of Paralympic medals with a gold. He is now the first Great Britain Paralympian to win gold in singles and doubles, and his achievements have been outstanding.

“Congratulations to all on everything you have achieved.”

The provost also recorded the council’s congratulations to Councillor Jennifer Kean (Independent, South Kintyre) – previously known as Jennifer Kelly – on her recent wedding.