The sound of bagpipes resounded as Castle Park played host to Scotland in Colchester.

It is the tenth year that Scottish pipe bands from throughout the country have gathered to compete in a pipe band contest and put on displays of Scottish dancing.

The public were invited to learn a few dances during the two-day event, which attracts thousands of visitors.

Not all hot air - the Caledonian Pipe Band taking part in the pipe bands' display at Scotland in Colchester in Castle Park. Picture: ROB SAMBROOK

Drummers and solo pipers competed for medals and there was also a chance to buy a taste of Scotland at some of the stalls.

The event finished with a massed bands display in the park.

Interest in all things Scottish is flourishing in Colchester and 200 people belong to the Caledonian Society of Colchester and District.

Its president Nancy Cannon said: "So many Scottish people came here at the beginning of last century."

She said farmers had moved down to the Colchester area and some soldiers from Scottish regiments decided to stay in the area after they left the Army.

The society teaches Scottish dancing every Monday at St Teresa's Hall in Clairmont Road and further details are available on 01206 240252

Published Monday, June 2, 2003

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