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by iNews
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By Bláthnaid McQuaide
More than 50 bands are set to take part in the 79th All-Ireland Pipe Band Championships at Ebrington Square in Derry this summer.
The competition returns to the city which last hosted the event during the City of Culture celebrations in 2013. It is expected to attract thousands of visitors and boost tourism in the area. A number of other fringe events are due to take place across the district in the week leading up to the championships. The location for these events has not been revealed yet.
The annual championship was officially launched by First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly during a visit to Ebrington Square.
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane Council, Lilian Seenoi–Barr also welcomed the announcement.
Ms Seenoi-Barr said: “Hosting this prestigious event at Ebrington Square represents a wonderful opportunity to showcase our rich cultural heritage and our city’s growing reputation as a premier events destination.”
She hoped the championships would create an economic boost for the local community.
“The championships will not only bring the stirring sounds of world-class pipe bands to our city but will also deliver significant economic benefits to our local businesses and hospitality sector.”
The championships are set to welcome 50 bands and 35 Drum Majors from across the USA, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Andrew Graham, chairperson of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association (RSPBA) said the championship was always a highlight.
“I am very much looking forward to welcoming the bands, drum Majors, highland dancers and, of course, our spectators back to the city for the first time since 2013,”Mr Graham said.
The RSPBA chairman said: “While there is still some more work to do, rest assured, the sound of pipes and drums, and the visual spectacle of Drum Majors and Highland Dancers at Ebrington Square will be very much alive on the first Saturday in July this year.”
The championships will take place at Ebrington Square in Derry on July 5.
Caption for pic: First Minister, Michaell O’Neill, Deputy First Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly and mayor of Derry and Strabane, Lilian Seenoi-Barr were joined by pipers, drummers, dancers and drum majors at the launch of the All Ireland Pipe Band Championships.
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