Pipe band double act drums-up donations for Royal Blind
Edinburgh’s Rose Street turned into a musical mayhem on 22nd August as two pipe bands teamed up to march through the infamous pub hub for charity.
Adding to the renowned Fringe atmosphere, Edinburgh’s Caledonian Brewery Pipe Band joined forces with The Sons of Scotland Pipe Band, which is Canada’s oldest Civilian Pipe Band, to raise funds for Royal Blind.
Fringe-goers could hear the recognisable roar of the bagpipes and drums from the 50-strong band, whilst they enjoyed a pint in Rose Street, known for its array of bars.
Caledonian Brewery produces Deuchars IPA and is the official sponsorship partner and beer of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The ale is available in cask in Edinburgh’s quality pubs and some venues during this year’s Fringe, as well as bottles and cans in major supermarkets.
Craig Shepherd, drummer of the Caledonian Brewery Pipe Band and IT manager at Caledonian Brewery, said:
“It was a fantastic atmosphere marching along Rose Street to St Andrew Square with The Sons of Scotland Pipe Band and even better knowing that we have raised cash for a good cause!
“The pubs in Edinburgh, particularly along Rose Street, are always very busy during Festival time, so it was brilliant to be able to provide some entertainment, whilst tourists and locals enjoyed their pint of Deuchars, soaking up the atmosphere.
“We hope they enjoyed listening as much as we did playing!”
The Sons of Scotland Pipe Band are visiting Edinburgh for the World Pipe Band Championships, which took place last weekend. The band includes traditional Highland dancers, who were also part of the Rose Street march.
Bethany Bisaillion from The Sons of Scotland Pipe Band, said:
“The Sons of Scotland Pipe Band – Canada’s oldest civilian pipe band – is honored to have been on parade with their friends in the Caledonian Brewery Pipe Band.
“Hot off the heels of a triumphant run at the World Pipe Band Championships and a performance at Balmoral Castle for Her Majesty The Queen, we are so happy to end our run in Scotland with this parade. Rose Street has never sounded so good. Go on the ‘Sons of Caledonia’!”
Fundraisers from Royal Blind were on hand to help encourage donations throughout the march, with a latest figure of over £200 and counting, which is expected to contribute towards a variety of services provided by the charity.
Davina Shiell, marketing and fundraising manager for Royal Blind, said:
“Royal Blind was delighted to be part of this special event celebrating Deuchars IPA’s association with the Fringe, as the Caledonian Brewery is one of our biggest corporate supporters.
“The Brewery’s ongoing support enables us to provide vital services for visually impaired and disabled people of all ages. We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone involved for helping Royal Blind to make a real difference to the lives of people we support.”
