Scottish champion Co-operative Funeralcare has announced that it will be led by Allan Withington at the forthcoming European Championships in Rotterdam.

Fortunate

Band Chairman Paul Kiernan told 4BR: "We are very fortunate to have secured Allan's services. His contest record is second to none and his appointment has given the band a real focus and drive hot on the heels of our Regional Scottish Championship win. There is a lot of hard work ahead but we’re up for the task."

Meanwhile, Allan added: "I have always had great respect for the band and I’m looking forward to leading them in Rotterdam. This year is a very strong field but we have some great players and by the contest weekend will be in a position to put in a serious bid for the championship title."

This year is a very strong field but we have some great players and by the contest weekend will be in a position to put in a serious bid for the championship titleAllan Withington

Open rehearsal

The 31 time crowned Scottish Champion will be holding a free open rehearsal of the test pieces they will play in Rotterdam at the Couper Institute, Glasgow on Wednesday 2nd May

They will work on the set test piece 'Vita Aeterna Variations' by Alexander Comitas, as well as their own choice test piece.

The rehearsal will start at 7.30pm, before they set out to Rotterdam the following day.

Admission is free and doors open at 7.00pm.