Saturday 13th May from 11am will see Castle Park in Bangor come alive with great sounds and sights as the Pipe Band Championships start their season with their first Pipe Band, Drum Major and Highland Dancing Championships of 2017.

This year sees a huge entry of 39 bands, 47 Drum Majors and 55 Highland Dancers taking part in this impressive music and dancing spectacle.

Scottish Pipe Band, The Vale of Atholl, will visit Bangor for the first time since the last major European Championship and will compete with current Grade 1 World Pipe Band Champions Field Marshal Montgomery along with many other finely tuned bands.

Mayor of Ards and North Down, Alderman Deborah Girvan, who will act as Chieftain for the day said “The Championships are a firm favourite in the Council’s events programme and they bring a great day of family entertainment to Bangor enjoyed by competitors and supporters alike.”

RSPBA NI Chairman Ray Hall said, “I am really looking forward to the Championships in Castle Park, it is a fantastic start to the 2017 season. All the bands, drum majors and Highland Dancers have put in hours of practice over the winter months and are keen to show everyone what they can do in the competition arena at this great day out for all the family.’There will be delicious food and merchandise available throughout the day so come along to Castle Park and don’t miss this superb FREE EVENT!

For more information, check out: www.visitardsandnorthdown.com. or www.facebook.com/rspbani/