Thursday 21 August 2014

Machine Gun Memorial, Hyde Park

On the 11th August the Royal British Legion organised a World War I Commemoration at the Machine Gun Corps Memorial at Hyde Park Corner which Piper, Lachlan McDonald, played at. The Corp was in existance between 1915 to 1922, and they suffered heavy losses in the war.

The ceremony commenced with the bagpipes to gather the crowd which was small and mainly tourists. It was conducted like a church service with readings and prayers praising the job done by the Corp in the First World War. Readings included the war poets and the service finished with God Save the Queen and the Kohima Epitaph.

The event was rounded off with a photo shoot and more piping by our solo piper.


 
 
 




 
 

Sunday 17 August 2014

Walthamstow British Legion Garden Party

The Stow Caledonian Pipe Band played at a garden party for Walthamstow Royal British Legion. Attending were councillors and members of the Royal British Legion Walthamstow Branch.

We were pleased to be part of the event, enjoying a tasty barbecue and good company with friends of the band while soaking up the good weather.

 

 
 
 

 

Monday 4 August 2014

Centenary of World War I

On this day 100 years ago, war was declared between Germany and England. Today we commemorate this event and remember all the fallen soldiers who fought for Queen and country.


Walthamstow:

The band led members of the Walthamstow Royal British Legion and Standard Bearers around the fountain at Walthamstow Town Hall to the Assembly Hall, outside which a large crowd of people gathered to attend the commemoration evening. The Union Jack was raised and guests headed inside the hall, led by the band.

After several readings and performances by local people, guests then lit candles outside whilst the band played Highland Cathedral as a moment of reflection. The flag was lowered, a beacon lit and the last post was played as the congregation stood for a minutes silence.

"Brining so much talent together for the evening was something that made it a most memorable night. Thank you for your invaluable contribution" - Councillor Chris Robbins

Click here to view a video of the event

 
 




 



 
 
Witham:

Members of the band also played at Witham, leading a parade from the RAFA Club to the memorial gardens where a commemorative service took place and a civic wreath was laid on behalf of the community.


The Stow Caledonian Pipe Band were privileged to have played for such a significant event in the history of our country and we take this opportunity to remember all those who gave their lives so selflessly so we could be here today.

Sunday 3 August 2014

World War I Commemoration at Walthamstow High Street

On Sunday 3rd August we, The Stow Caledonian Pipe Band, paraded at Walthamstow High Street at midday with Standard Bearers from The Royal British Legion and Veterans in commemoration of the First World War.

The Mayor of Waltham Forest was present as a small ceremony took place. Prayers were said, after which the parade formed up, marched up the high street and back down again.



 
 
 
 

Saturday 2 August 2014

Unveiling of Hounslow's new war memorial

Today the band played as part of a procession to the Holy Trinity Church, Hounslow, to unveil their new war memorial in a service to mark 100 years since the First World War.

The parade consisted of a detachment of the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards, Chelsea Pensioners, former Gurkhas, Veterans from The Royal British Legion and Standard Bearers which we led along with the Regimental Band of the Welsh Guards.

When we arrived at Holy Trinity Church we took part in a service with a special dignitary, Lance Sergeant Johnson Beharry VC who unveiled the granite obelisk. The service was heart warming and being part of the parade moved us immensely.

The Stow Caledonian Pipe Band were honoured to take part in this prestigious parade and ceremony to commemorate the very brave and honourable soldiers from World War I. This is an experience the band will always remember.























Pipe Major Gareth Utting with a former Gurkha, both fought in the Falklands War of 1982.