THOUSANDS of talented musicians had the wind in their sails as they gathered for the British Pipe Band Championships.

Contestants from as far afield as Denmark and Canada headed to the St James Playing Fields, in Paisley, for the spectacular event.

And, despite some changeable weather, thousands of spectators from across Renfrewshire, East Renfrewshire and beyond went along to enjoy the spectacle of sight and sound.

The Grade 1 title went to Inveraray and District, who were also last year’s Champion of Champions.

Members of Johnstone Pipe Band also made the short trip to Paisley to take part in the event.

Competing for the first time in a major championship at the promoted grades of 1 and 4a, the Johnstone musicians were delighted with their performance.

The Grade 4a band carried on from their successful season last year by securing third place from a field of 17 in their final.

And the Grade 1 band finished 10th of 16 in their final, beating some well-established Grade 1 bands in the process.

Pipe Major Keith Bowes Jr said: “With both bands being newly promoted, it was great to see them do so well, as it is never easy to make an impact as you move up the grades.”

Ian Embelton, of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association, added: “Paisley was a great host for the first major championships of the season.”