YOUNG pipers and drummers from Renfrewshire are celebrating after being hailed as Scottish champions at the weekend.

There were tears of joy when Renfrewshire Schools Pipe band emerged victorious in the novice juvenile B category in the fiercely competitive event held at Dumbarton.

The victory was viewed as due reward for all the hard work and practice the band has done since launching in November 2014.

Pipe major Keith Bowes, who led the band to their success in what was a very competitive field, said: “There were emotional scenes with some parents in tears.

“This was our first major championship win. We are delighted with all the support we have received within the council area.

“The pipes and drums are a great addition to the music service in Renfrewshire schools.

“It was a great moment for them all and it’s good to know they will be returning to school after the holidays as Scottish champions.

”Praise was also heaped on the band by Renfrewshire’s Provost, Lorraine Cameron, who said: “I am delighted to congratulate the Renfrewshire Schools Band on winning their first ever major championship at the weekend.

“This is a fantastic achievement and we are very proud of all the pupils and their instructors – it’s a great reward for all their hours of hard work and practice.

“The council has invested money to keep school music tuition free because we want as many young people as possible to experience the benefits it has for their development – this weekend has been a great example of that.”

The Bowes family are renowned in Renfrewshire for their piping skills and willingness to coach youngsters.

Keith is also pipe major of the Johnstone grade 1 band and his dad, also Keith, is pipe major of the Johnstone grade 3 band. Keith Snr also gives piping tuition to kids in Renfrewshire.

Now the band are tuning up for their next challenge - the world championships in Paisley in August.

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