Achnacarry Pipes and Drums Band

Is it known when the "band" was first formed ?, and what was its strength.

I am aware that they doubled up as the "demo" troop.

Again any help would be appreciated.

Graham.

Hi Graham

An interesting question. I know Major Donald Gilchrist in his book Castle Commando mentions a Pipe Major being at the Station on his arrival at Spean Bridge in 1942. Where there is a Pipe Major there should be a Pipe Band. Also Major Jimmy Dunning mentions in his book the Pipe Band as you say doubling up as the Demonstration Troop in early 1943. The gallery has several photos of the CBTC Pipes and Drums and will give you an idea of their strength but I have not seen any official document.

http://gallery.commandoveterans.org/cdoGallery/v/Commando+Training/pipes+and+drums/

The formal one at Achnacarry with Lt Col Vaughan is probably the best to go on, and seems to have 6 drummers (side, bass and tenor) and 8 pipers, if you include the Pipe Major.