The Fermanagh Pipe Band and Drum Major Championships 2024 were a resounding success this past weekend in Enniskillen. The event, held on Saturday, attracted some of the country’s top competition pipe bands and drum majors, including World, European, Scottish, and Irish champions.
From mid-morning until early evening, the popular gathering showcased exceptional talent and seamless organization by the Fermanagh Section of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association. This event continued the tradition of long-established, cross-Border, cross-community events.
Betty Booth, President of the section, praised the relentless efforts and organization required to stage such an event. She also acknowledged the support of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association Northern Ireland branch officials and all sponsors, particularly the main sponsor, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, which played a significant role in reigniting the Fermanagh Championships.
The Chieftain of the day was former World Champion Piper Major of Killadeas Pipe Band, Kenny Ferguson, with his wife, Lorraine, presenting the prizes. Mr. Ferguson welcomed all the bands, drum majors, and visitors to Enniskillen, expressing his hope that everyone enjoyed the wonderful music and all the town had to offer.
The host county was represented by the Irvine Memorial Pipe Band in Grade 4A, under the direction of Pipe Major Neil Strong. The Irvine Memorial Pipe Band won the Cable Finance Cup for their performance, adding to their second-place finish at the UK Championships in Bangor, Co. Down, in Grade 4A on May 18.
In Grade 3A, the Clogher and District Pipe Band had a clean sweep, winning first place, best pipes, best drums, best bass section, and best M & D. The band is directed by Pipe Major Kyle Duddy.
