Council chiefs on trip to USA

Journey made at their own expense

North Lanarkshire Council’s provost and education convener will accompany North Lanarkshire Schools Pipe Band on a trip to New York – at their own expense.

Provost Jean Jones and councillor Frank Mcnally will officially represent the council – without incurring costs to the taxpayer – while participating in the annual Tartan Week celebrations in the Big Apple. The biggest event in the festival is a parade down 6th Avenue on Saturday, April 6.

Provost Jones said: “It is a fantastic opportunity for the young people and I’m sure there will be other provosts there at taxpayers’ expense, but considering the financial challenges facing the council and the millions we need to save, there was no way I could have asked for the council to fund my travel and live with myself.

“I’ve seen the band play many times and they are wonderful. Many of them have never been abroad, let alone take part in such a big event and I’m sure this will be an unforgettable experience for everyone. It will be hard work too as they have a lot to pack into their schedule.”

A total of 48 young people, who attend schools all over North Lanarkshire, will be jetting off to the States for the celebration of all things Scottish and they are hard at work fundraising. The band was invited to New York after a phenomenal season of competition last year, winning Scottish, British and European championships and only narrowly missing out on a world title.

Jim Park, principal music instructor with the council, said: “Fundraising activities in preparation of the pipe band’s visit to New York this year are very much ongoing.

“The young people and their families have been working extremely hard behind the scenes to raise as much money as possible to allow this exciting opportunity to happen.

“From performing concerts and impromptu playing at supermarkets, to selling football cards and organising a ceilidh, there’s lots of fundraising activities.

“A number of local businesses have also come forward to financially pledge their support and we would like to take the opportunity to appeal for any others to back our young people, who are brimming with excitement at having the chance to perform during New York Tartan Week.

“We want our pipe band members to have this once in a lifetime experience and are helping in every way possible to support their fundraising.”

Jim Park can be contacted on 01236 812220 or Parkj@ northlan.gov.uk.