Players from Whitburn will be getting on their bikes this weekend in preparation for their forthcoming European challenge.

The 2013 Scottish champion will represent the home nation at the event in Perth in May — the first time the contest has been held in Scotland since 2004, and will be the culmination of a very busy and important time for the band.

Blackpool and Perth

Less than a week before they tackle the European set work, ‘Muckle Flugga’, the band also makes the trip to the Winter Gardens in Blackpool to try and qualify for the British Open through the Grand Shield contest.

Imposing costs

The additional costs involved in playing at both events are imposing as Band President, David Kinross, told 4BR: "This is one of the busiest periods in the band’s history, and we need all the support we can get from of all our friends and supporters.

The costs involved in going to both contests are substantial.

We are very proud to represent Scotland at a home European and we need help to make the best challenge possible."

Cycling

With this in mind, the band has been fundraising with a sponsored cycle this weekend.

Members will cycle from Whitburn band hall to the Perth Concert Hall on Saturday, April 19th — a distance of 60 miles.

The intrepid riders will be supported by the rest of the band, with a performance in Whitburn as the peloton departs, followed by support along the route at branches of Dobbies Garden Centres in Livingston, Dunfermline and Kinross.

We are very proud to represent Scotland at a home European and we need help to make the best challenge possibleBand President, Dave Kinross

Find out more

If you wish to help support the band, go to: www.whitburnband.co.uk