Right note struck for pipe band

The publicity has earned the pipe band new members

A small pipe band ordered to stop practising outside by a council has reached a compromise deal.

Newtonhill Pipe Band's pipers and drummers - aged from 11 to 75 - use the grounds of the local school in Aberdeenshire.

Members were "shocked" to be told by Aberdeenshire Council they should practise inside after complaints.

However, both sides have now agreed the band will end any practice sessions outside by 2100 BST.

New members

Pipe Major Domhnull McLennan told the BBC Scotland news website: "We have come to a compromise which is fantastic news.

"Although there is no legal basis, we have agreed to curtail our playing at night. Common sense has eventually prevailed.

"The support from Newtonhill - and even from abroad - after a week of news has been terrific. We have had new members joining thanks to the publicity."

Willie Munro, Aberdeenshire Council's area manager for Kincardine and Mearns, said: "We are very supportive of any local activity that encourages young people to develop their skills.

"We are pleased to have been able to find a resolution with the pipe band with whom we have had a good working relationship over many years."