CUMNOCK pipers are celebrating more success after taking their place in the top three best bag-piping bands in Europe.

Competition against over 100 other bands the East Ayrshire band was stunned to be recognised as one of the best by the European Pipe Band Championships.

They proudly scooped third place at Bught Park, Inverness despite battling hot conditions and heavy rain.

The band travelled there and back in one day, having to leave at 4.30am and heading home after their performance.

The Kilmarnock Pipe Band, which is made up of many local residents, were also recently recognised as Ayrshire’s finest’ for their musical talents at Carrick Lowland Games.

The band which is led by world champion Karen Warren, 32, were delighted to pick up multiple awards including ‘best dressed’ and ‘best marching and discipline’.

Karen recently scooped second place at an international competition as she battled against entries from around the globe.

Paul Warren, the pipe major said: “I’m incredibly proud of the hard work and commitment of all the players and support team. This result shows what can be achieved from great team work.

“We are still at the start of a long journey, that will hopefully bring more success and trophies back.”