Chairman and Trophy Officer’s long service recognised.
The Annual General Meeting of the County Down Section of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association Northern Ireland (RSPBANI) was held in the Millbrook Lodge Hotel, Ballynahinch on Wednesday 21st October.There was a good attendance of band delegates. During the meeting the President Lorraine Ronaldson presented gifts to the outgoing Chairman William Connolly and the outgoingTrophy Officer James Crothers in recognition of their loyal service to the section over many years.
The new Chairman is Derek Mack (Previously Vice-Chairman) and Vikki Singer replaces Derek as Vice-Chairman.The new trophy officer is Roy McCullough who will undertake these extra duties in addition to his role as RSPBANI Trophy Officer.
Other business on the night was the announcement that ABC Council will host the championships for a further three years in Lurgan Park.
Reports were filed by the Treasurer Secretary and Trophy Officer all were accepted.
Mr Ray Hall NI Branch Chairman attended and conducted the election of officers, before leaving the chair he thanked both Willie and James for their service over a very long time. He welcomed the new team to office and wished them well. He said the section contest continues to grow and evolve, he complimented the Secretary on his work with the Lurgan event he also remarked that the ABC council are committed to your event and are interested in a larger contest as well, run by the branch. Best wishes were extended in the years ahead.
The continuing support to the Childrens Hospice was highlighted and a total of £2.500 was raised for this great cause with thanks to R G Hardie again for the bagpipes. Plans for the fund raiser for 2016 are underway. The Section will be making a donation to the Branch Presidents Charity the Friends of the Cancer Centre.
Mervyn Herron Secretary
