LINKS between Warrington and Northern Ireland are set to be enhanced by one of the town's leading bands.

The Warrington Juvenile Pipe Band will be heading to Northern Ireland next week for a four-day visit to Lisburn, Holywood, Bangor and Belfast.

The theme of the trip is 'Building Bridges of Friendship' and the visit is being supported by the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association, The Royal Ulster Constabulary, the Lisburn YMCA and Warrington Borough Council.

Pipe major Donald Mackenzie said that the band has had to raise £5,000 to cover the cost of the trip.

He said: "The borough council, local companies and organisations, together with individuals, have donated money and gifts to this venture. The various schools which band members attend have also supported us by granting them two days' leave."

"Everyone connected with the band greatly appreciates this support and we would like to thank everyone who has helped."

On Monday, June 23, the Warrington youngsters will be playing for a short time on the Town Hall lawn and they will be given a civic send-off by the Mayor, Clr Roy Humphreys.

While they are in Northern Ireland, the band will receive a civic reception in Belfast.

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