A sea of kilts descended on Dumbarton at the weekend as the 2018 Scottish Pipe Band Championships welcomed more than 120 bands from across the globe.

More than 16,000 people headed to Levengrove Park on Saturday to listen to some of the best pipers and drummers on the planet and despite the heavy showers a great day was had by all.

And piping their way to the top spot were St Laurence O’Toole band, from Dublin, who took the Grade 1 winners title, led by pipe major Alen Tully.

Provost and event Chieftain William Hendrie said: “I always enjoy the Scottish Pipe Band Championships and this year it has exceeded all expectations.

“This event has it all – traditional music, a brilliant atmosphere and some beautiful Scottish scenery.

“While the weather may not have been on our side, it didn’t stop the dedicated musicians putting on a thrilling show, and it didn’t stop the crowds turning out to see them.”

Ian Embelton, Chief Executive of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association, added: “What a great year at the Scottish Championships. As always, the standards were extremely high, and the judges had a tough time choosing winners.

Bands from all corners of the world came to Dumbarton to compete including Grade 2 band Balagan from Denmark, and Brisbane Boys College, who came from Australia to participate in the Novice Juvenile A final – placing fourth.

Ben Rodgers, from Brisbane said: “This is the first time I’ve played at the Scottish championships and it’s been really good fun. We only got here from Brisbane two days ago, so this has been a great welcome to Scotland.”

The event has grown to be one of the biggest free pipe band competitions in the world and it brings significant economic benefit to the area each year.

As well as the unmistakable sound of the pipes and drums ringing out around the park, visitors also enjoyed highland dancing competitions, a fun fair and a range of free activities were also on offer at the West Dunbartonshire Leisure ‘Sports Zone’.