Peter Anderson, Strathclyde Police

We had a good night on Friday at the Wallacestone & District Pipe Band where they were honouring the 30 year contribution Peter Anderson had made to the drum corps of what is probably Scotland's oldest pipe band (1887). Great to meet up with Jim Hutton and ex Muirheads pals Jimmy Anderson, Willie Williamson, Jim Crawford and Jock Waddell. Peter received a series of gifts in recognition of all his hard work but I suspect the most rewarding thing for him was seeing and hearing all his ex-pupils playing so well. His brother Tommy, seen making presentation to Peter (r), read out a huge list of his achievements, not least of which was placing third in the Adult World Solo Drumming final when only 13. Peter was at pains to point out that he is not retiring from the band scene and continues to lead the corps at Central Scotland Police.
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I see the Sunday Mail newspaper has weighed into the Strathclyde Police situation. Their report yesterday said that members of the force's pipe band were among those to raise grievances against their senior officer Chief Superintendent Anne McGuire. The paper goes on: 'Last year McGuire was asked by Chief Constable Steve House to implement his plan to return more officers to the beat. As part of that process pipe band members were told to spend more time on police duties and less on their music. The band, who usually play at the annual charity for disabled children, have been told only two pipers can attend this year's event in Troon.'
I had a call from a correspondent in Aberdeen who helps run a popular military tattoo in Germany. He says they have been after the band to take part but have so far received no response. The March PT explained why, he said. Pity as Lothian and Borders and Grampian police bands had already signed up for the showpiece event in November. Another opportunity for great PR gone?
Another correspondent called to congratulate me on the Editorial and said that Mr House had only got the job as Chief Constable because he promied the Police Board that he could deliver savings of £16m ($12m approx.). The pipe band had fallen victim as a result.