Skirl of the pipes boosts spirits in Auchterarder

Hundreds of residents of Auchterarder and the surrounding villages took to their doors and driveways to join in a rendition of Flower Of Scotland to boost community spirits.

People from across the Perthshire town, Blackford, Aberuthven and Dunning joined in with the Community School of Auchterarder Pipe Band and a host of other musicians for a chorus of the national anthem and Scotland The Brave at 6pm on Saturday.

The idea was thought up by Lucy Armitage Gladwell who wanted to show support for people in the area and across the nation who are continuing to work amid the coronavirus outbreak.

After putting out a call for pipers, Lucy was contacted by Chloe Blakely, 14, of the school pipe band who was eager to get involved.

Chloe said: “It was a really good turnout. On my street everyone was out and they were all singing along.

“When I finished playing I could hear it getting played across the town.

“Everyone that said they would join in did. It was really amazing to hear everyone join in after so much effort had been put in.

“I just want to thank everyone that joined in.”

In addition to Flower Of Scotland and Scotland The Brave, the young musician also played Highland Cathedral and Marie’s Wedding.

Chloe said she will discuss with Lucy if they can do it every week for the duration of lockdown and would be keen to see it happen.

Each of the pipers played from their own garden, or driveway or window, with one student getting permission to play outside Parkdale Care Home where her granny is a resident.

Lucy said: “This is to recognise all those people still working on the front line locally and nationally and to say thank you to each and everyone of you for helping to support the local community and the country.”

It follows the Clap for our Carers initiative which saw thousands show appreciation for NHS workers by cheering and clapping from homes and driveways at 8pm on Thursday.