Monday September 21st 2026
Representing the Fallago Environment Fund, His Grace The Duke of Roxburghe joins Andrew Ainslie, Pipe Major, Duns Pipe Band to collect a new bale of the band’s tartan from Lochcarron of Scotland in Selkirk (Photo by Paul Dodds)
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
A much-loved Borders pipe band is in tune with tartan after a windfarm windfall.
Founded in 1942, Duns Pipe Band has played an important role in the life of Duns and the wider Borders community for over 80 years.
Its regular performances support festival weeks, gala days, agricultural shows, Remembrance Day parades, Christmas and New Year celebrations and a range of other community events across the region.
The band currently has 40 active playing members as well as 12 learners and runs a piping and drumming tuition and training programme that’s open to people of all ages and abilities.
Now the Fallago Environment Fund has awarded a £1,578 grant to the band to purchase 100 metres of its bespoke red and black tartan.
The grant will enable Duns Pipe Band to replace material that has become faded and worn through years of performances and exposure to the elements.
The 100-metre supply of the distinctive red and black design will meet anticipated needs for the next decade.
The Fallago Environment Fund shares the benefits of the Fallago Rig wind farm in the Lammermuir Hills with projects across the Scottish Borders and is financed by Roxburghe Estates, Federated Hermes and EDF power solutions UK.
Speaking on behalf of the Fund, His Grace The Duke of Roxburghe, said: “Duns Pipe Band is a wonderful example of how a community organisation can preserve local heritage while creating opportunities for people of all ages to learn, develop confidence and contribute to community life.
“The band’s tartan is an important element of its identity, making its members instantly recognisable and enabling them to proudly represent Duns and Berwickshire wherever they go. We’re delighted that funds generated by the Fallago Rig windfarm can help ensure that this distinctive tradition continues for many years to come.”
Andrew Ainslie, Pipe Major of Duns Pipe Band, said: “We’re extremely grateful to the Fallago Environment Fund for this support. Our tartan represents Duns, our history and the connection between our band members and ensures that whenever we perform, people immediately know that they’re seeing Duns Pipe Band.
“Having 100 metres of new tartan gives us the security of knowing that we can replace and maintain our Highland dress over the coming years and continue to represent the band, and the town, to the highest standard.”
Young people involved with the band have achieved National 5, High and Advanced Higher qualifications while others have gone on to play and compete at the highest levels. All tuition is provided free of charge by volunteers.
The Fallago Environment Fund is administered by Tweed Forum. Grant applications are assessed twice a year, with application deadlines on 1 September and 1 March. Further information can be found at www.tweedforum.org/fallago or by calling Tweed Forum on 01896 849723.
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