FINAL preparations are underway for one of the world’s biggest pipe band championships.

West Dunbartonshire will play host to the Scottish Pipe Band Championships for the 19th year on Saturday, July 28.

More than 100 bands and 25,000 people are expected to descend on Levengrove Park for the event, which generates £1.7million for the local economy.

As well as hearing pipes and drums from some of the best bands in the world, spectators can look forward to Highland dancing competitions, a fun fair and a range of other family-friendly events.

William Hendrie, West Dunbartonshire Provost andChieftain of the Scottish Pipe Band Championships, said: “It is such an honour for Dumbarton to have hosted such a wonderful event for the past 19 years.

“The competition has grown and grown and the people of Dumbarton have loved being part of it as well as welcoming visitors from far and wide who have travelled here over the years.

“There’s nothing quite like the sound and sights of the pipes and in Levengrove Park in the shadow of the Castle, it’s a magical setting too. It is sure to be a great day out for all the family.”

Visitors are asked to note that due to refurbishment work in the park, there will be a slight change to the layout of the event which means they will enter and exit the event differently from previous years.

There is a park and pay facility at the venue, but due to the high volume of people expected at the event, visitors are being encouraged to use public transport.