The ScottishPower Renewables British Pipe Band Championships will have a familiar face as Chieftain for the 2012 competitions, with John Alexander from the title sponsors returning to the role he was honoured to hold last year.

Taking place in Annan on Saturday 30th June, Mr Alexander who is a Project Director with the renewable energy developer, will once again fulfil the prestigious position as the ceremonial figurehead for the Championships and take the salute from the 140 bands taking place in the event.

John commented, “I am delighted to be appointed Chieftain for this year’s Championships and I am once again looking forward to working with the Council to deliver a spectacular event for Dumfries and Galloway.

“At ScottishPower Renewables we know that local communities around our windfarm projects do receive genuine benefits from our activities and the economic boost the region’s companies, suppliers and accommodation providers will receive, as a result of our continued sponsorship of the Championships is a great example of this.”

Councillor Ian Carruthers, the Chairman of the pipe band planning group said, “The Council is delighted to take forward our productive sponsorship relationship with ScottishPower Renewables, to enable us to deliver these prestigious Championships for the enjoyment of local people and the piping world at large. It is pleasing to see that the event in its third and final year for us continues to grow, with a record number of band entries. We expect to recover 65% of the total costs of delivering this event through sponsorship, fees and ticket income – whilst providing excellent value for money for all our visitors.”

One hundred and forty one bands are registered to compete on June 30th, a rise of eight over the 2011 entry level. New for 2012 will be a major craft fair within the grounds of the pipe band championships, to showcase much of what is fresh and vibrant of Dumfries and Galloway’s renowned creative sector.

The Council is determined to make the Championships affordable and fun. Tickets bought in advance are heavily discounted over the gate price. Tickets in advance, which have been kept at 2011 prices, are priced £6 for adults and £4 for concessions (with a family ticket for four available at the special price of £15).

Tickets on the day cost £9 (£6 for concessions) and £22 for a family pass.

Tickets can be purchased via the Council’s Customer Service Centres or online at www.ticketweb.co.uk.