Enniskillen is once again in fine tune to play host to the annual Fermanagh Pipe Band and Drum Majors’ Championships today, Saturday, May 28, when the sound of the pipes and drums will fill the air.

The Enniskillen contest, which appeals to local people and visitors, is one of the largest public events to take place in the county and attracts approximately 1,000 musicians and around 3,000 spectators to Enniskillen. They will have 48 band performances on the day (today).

Competition at this popular contest is of national standard with a number of Scottish, British, World and European Champion bands and drum majors in their grade taking part. 

Bands from across Ireland enter the long established venture, which last year saw bands from Dublin, Cork, Wexford, Wicklow, Monaghan, Donegal and from all of Northern Ireland come to Enniskillen. 

Ray Hall, Secretary of the Fermanagh Section, explained that the committee had been busy planning for the contest. “A number of bands have already been in contact and have told me that they are looking forward to coming to Fermanagh,” noted Mr. Hall, who acknowledged they have 44 bands confirmed attending and 45 drum majors.

He noted: “Local entries include Moybrone Pipe Band from Letterbreen and well known senior drum major, David Brownlee from Derryclavin Pipe Band, Lisbellaw.’’

Mr. Hall added: “Our committee does appreciate the support of the Council, other funders and sponsors to assist us in putting on this event which is free to the public.”

The competition is due to start this morning, Saturday, at 11.30am with the last band playing around 5pm, followed by the Traditional March Past and Salute to the Chieftain.

The Chieftain at this Year’s Championships is local businessman Mr. Nicky Cassidy from the Westville Hotel, with his wife Mrs. Tara Cassidy presenting the prizes.

An overflow band competitors’ car park has been provided at Stuart’s Car Park, Sligo Road.