All of the RSPBANI Branch want to express their extreme disappointment that the Larne contest could not proceed yesterday despite the huge effort that the Co Antrim Section and Larne Council had put in to stage one of the largest contests of the year . Ground conditions were deteriorating to such an extent that health and safety risks had to come into the considerations as well as the problems the incessant rain could pose to the instruments, especially with the UK Championships at Stormont next Saturday. The RSPBANI Branch will work with the Co Antrim section over the next few days to explore every possibility of rearranging the event to a date later on in the year.
Ray Hall, Branch Chairman said; ‘ I personally feel a great empathy with the Co Antrim Section who after a very emotional meeting, together with Branch Officers , had to make the decision that the contest could not go ahead. A similar decision had to be made at Enniskillen last year but most of the contest did take place. It was even more heart wrenching to not be able to start.
Last year I and the Co Fermanagh Section were heartened by the messages of support we received from bands and others. I have no doubt that this support will be extended this year to the Co Antrim section and if the contest can be rearranged as many bands, drum majors and supporters as possible will make every effort to attend.’’
He went on to say that the raw emotions and huge disappointment that were so evident from all who had to make such a decision was a testament to the hours of work, passion and commitment that is required to promote and stage a pipe band contest
