I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone in the Pipe band Community and our supporters a very merry, peaceful Christmas and a happy New Year.
At this time of year it is also good to take stock; 2012 has been a great year for our Bands and Drum Majors who once again achieved huge success in all of the Major Championships, the Ulster Solo competition attracted a record number of entries and as I write our School has achieved record enrolment numbers. All of the Branch Officers and Committee would like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication shown by individuals, groups and bands right across the province that goes into achieving such successful outcomes.
The Branch Executive, Committees and Volunteers have been working extremely hard over the past year, in what are challenging economic conditions, to enable the contests, school, website, social media, marketing and public relations, financial and administrative arrangements etc. to function efficiently and largely unseen. I would like to acknowledge the tireless work that all these people put in on behalf of the bands, it is appreciated.
I would like also to pay tribute to George Ussher who led us as Chairman so ably for the past ten years and has decided to take a more background role in our Branch. We are indeed fortunate that he is continuing in his role as President of RSPBA.
I look forward to seeing you all in the New Year.
Ray Hall
Chairman RSPBANI
