Mayor hosts reception to celebrate World Pipe Band champions

A SPECIAL civic reception has been held to celebrate the outstanding success of Bready Ulster Scots Pipe Band.

Hosted in the Guildhall by the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, councillor Grace Uí Niallais, the event was held to mark the band’s recent achievement of becoming World Champions.

The band secured first place in Grade 4B at the World Pipe Band Championships 2026, held at Glasgow Green earlier this year, for the first time in their 97 history

Adding to their success, they also claimed the award for Best Drum Corps in the Grade 4B final.

Members attended the reception where they also performed a selection of tunes.

The Mayor congratulated the band on their remarkable success, recognising the commitment and hard work behind the achievement and the pride they have brought to the local community.

Mayor Uí Niallais, said: “Becoming World Champions is an incredible achievement and a real source of pride for our district.

“The band’s talent, dedication and hard work have clearly paid off, and winning Best Drum Corps makes their success even more special.

“I want to congratulate everyone involved on this fantastic accomplishment and thank them for representing our area so proudly on the world stage.”

Speaking after the event, a spokesperson for the band said: “We had the pleasure of attending a civic reception at the Guildhall in recognition of our fantastic success this season as World Champions.

!A sincere thank you to alderman Amanda Lynch DUP  for requesting the reception and to the Mayor for hosting such a wonderful evening.

“It was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate our achievements alongside our band family and the many people who work tirelessly behind the scenes to support us.

“Every single one of you plays an important part in our journey and we truly appreciate each and every one of you.

“A few of our band members also had the honour of performing for the Mayor during the evening, making it an extra special occasion.

“Thank you for a lovely evening and for recognising the hard work, dedication and success of Bready Ulster Scots Pipe Band.

“A season to remember, made possible by an incredible band family.”

Following their success on the world stage, the band announced it was embarking on a new chapter as they had been upgraded to Grade 4A for the 2027 season.

“After an incredible 2026 season the hard work doesn’t stop here,” the spokesperson added.

“We have already begun practising and putting in the hours as we prepare for the challenges that lie ahead in 2027.

“Moving up a grade is a huge achievement for our band and is a testament to the dedication, commitment and hard work of our members, families and supporters.

“We’re excited for the next chapter and can’t wait to see what the 2027 season brings.

“Onwards and upwards!”

Visit the band’s Facebook page for more details on how to join and avail of tuition.