In tune for a grand finale

ATTRACTING visitors from around the world, the massed bands in the evening of Annan Riding of the Marches day remains a spectacle to behold. This year, a magnificent 14 pipe bands, along with Annan Town Band, marched down Annan High Street shortly after 6 pm. Their sounds and tunes, synonymous with Scotland, left crowds awestruck. Royal Burgh of Annan Pipe Band drum major Gibb Fraser wowed with his mace throwing abilities at the front of the first wave. Reneging on their decision not to participate in the massed bands, the town’s full pipe band made an appearance, a welcome surprise. Results were read out, prizes were presented and the Cornet Hayden and his Lass Kayleigh completed their duties. Cornet Hayden said: “We received the greatest courtesy from all landowners and found everything in good order and the boundaries intact.” The Cornet and his Lass both thanked everyone and president Andrew said they had performed their duties admirably. It all ended with the grand finale, featuring Annan Town Band, Dumfries Pipe Band and singing by Leona Mason.