ONE OF THE most popular pipe bands in Moray will perform in new colours as it ditches the Ancient Sutherland tartan in favour of the official RAF tartan.

The switch means that the RAF Lossiemouth Pipes and Drums will fall into line with the Halton, Waddington and Central Scotland bands in wearing the blue tartan – with each band distinguished by have their own band ties.

Formerly playing as the RAF Kinloss Pipes & Drums, the band was moved to Lossiemouth when the Kinloss base was handed over to the Army.

Pipe Major Barry Ashby explained: “Everyone will have seen the band performing on parades, at fundraisers, socials and ceremonial occasions wearing the Ancient Sutherland tartan that we have worn since 1957.

“Hopefully everyone will soon recognise us in our new tartan as we continue to provide musical support to the Station and to public events.”

The RAF Lossiemouth Pipes & Drums are a significant part of many events, this year they have performed at the Officers’ Mess Burn’s Supper, the XV(R) Squadron 100th Anniversary Parade, Armed Forces Day Parade in Keith, as well as on numerous occasions at Kinloss Barracks in support of 39 Engineer Regiment.

In 2015 they have also taken part in regional and national competitions, highland games, performed at weddings, and at solo engagements and various events on the Station.

In addition, the band provided a contingent to form part of the RAF Massed Pipes & Drums at the Edinburgh Tattoo and also represented RAF Lossiemouth as a full band in the massed bands at the Highland Military Tattoo at Fort George, Inverness.

New members are always welcome and anyone interested in joining should contact the Pipe Major on 01309 676432. The band practises twice a week, on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, starting at 8pm.

The band receives some financial support through sponsorship by Thales UK.