World Pipe Band event marches on

The Simon Fraser University band travelled from British Columbia

About 8,000 pipers descended on Glasgow for the World Pipe Band Championships on Saturday.

A record number of bands from across the world had signed-up to this year's event, which took place at Glasgow Green.

More than 230 bands brought pipers and drummers from as far afield as the US, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.

A Northern Irish group scooped the title of world champions at the colourful city spectacle.

Former winners The Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Band took first place in the Grade One category.

The Simon Fraser University group from Canada came in second, while last year's winners, homegrown talent The House of Edgar Shotts and Dykehead Pipe Band, claimed third place.

The competition, organised by the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association, has been linked with Glasgow since 1948.

The event recognises the best of traditional Scottish music and culture.

The weather was in our favour and massive crowds turned up Ian Embelton Chief executive

As well as the main competition, other attractions included Highland dancing and drum major competitions, traditional craft fairs and family entertainment.

Chief executive Ian Embelton said: "It was a fantastic day. Glasgow Green was covered in tartan.

"The weather was in our favour and massive crowds turned up.

"I'm sure the winners have all gone home very happy."

Chieftain and Lord Provost of Glasgow Liz Cameron said: "It's been an outstanding record-breaking day at the World Pipe Band Championships on Glasgow Green.

"The Worlds are a truly global event with bands coming from near and far.

"This shows once again that Glasgow has a proven track-record in hosting world-class events.

"This success can only help Glasgow in its bid to win the Commonwealth Games in 2014."