A PIPE band which has brought the sound of the Scottish highlands to Chorley is celebrating its 50th jubilee.

Chorley Pipe Band, which meets at St George's Hall, has been crowned world champion three times and produced some of the best pipers in the country, including Chorley-born Anthony Draper, who played solo live on TV for the Edinburgh tattoo.

Dave Woodyett, the current drum major who has been involved with the band for 30 years, said he has many great memories.

He said: "It has been great. The camaraderie has been fabulous, going all over the country competing.

"We have a lot of good friends up and down the country, and Chorley Pipe Band has a well respected name."

The band was set up by Fife-born Bob Walkingshaw, along with St George's Church Lads' Brigade.

It won the world championship in 1965, 1972 and 1998 and was crowned European Champion in 1989.

Since 1998 the band has suffered from a lack of numbers which meant it has been unable to compete in competitions. But, fortunately, it now looks to have turned the corner.

Dave said: "We have around 20 regular members and hope to compete again next year. We are always looking for new members."