Centenary of Cleland Memorial Pipe Band in Bangor, County Down

That this House congratulates Cleland Memorial Pipe Band, based in Bangor, County Down, on celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026; recognises the band's proud history since its formation in 1926 and its outstanding contribution to the musical, cultural and community heritage of Bangor and North Down; commends its important role in establishing the Bangor Highland Gathering in 1958, which attracted pipe bands from across Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and Scotland and continued until 1973; acknowledges the band's longstanding participation in local, national and international pipe band competitions, parades and public performances, including its appearance alongside the Scottish Fiddle Orchestra at Belfast's Waterfront Hall; pays tribute to the generations of pipers, drummers, Pipe Majors, instructors, committee members, families and supporters whose dedication and commitment have sustained the band throughout the past century; further recognises its invaluable contribution to preserving and promoting the traditions of Highland piping and drumming and encouraging future generations of musicians; and extends its warmest congratulations and best wishes to all associated with Cleland Memorial Pipe Band as it celebrates this remarkable milestone and looks forward to another century of musical excellence.