The highly successful bands of the Tullis Russell organisation were recently honoured by Fife Council with an official civic reception in recognition of their recent achievements, which this year included a historic Scottish Championship ‘Double’ by their senior and intermediate bands.

Unique achievement

Earlier this year in Perth, Tullis Russell Mills claimed the Scottish Second Section title, with their counterparts in the Tullis Russell Mills Intermediate Band winning the Third – an unique achievement in Scottish banding history. Also on display were the other trophies the bands have won in the past year.

Host

The event was hosted at the band sponsor’s new environmental education centre, by the Provost of Fife Cllr Jim Leishman OBE, who joked that he wasn’t used to seeing so many trophies in one room as he had only ever managed Dunfermline Athletic Football Club!

Senior members of staff from the company were also present to show their support and appreciation of the achievements, which will culminate in twin appearances at the National Finals in Cheltenham in September.

Fife Cllr Jim Leishman OBE, joked that he wasn’t used to seeing so many trophies in one room as he had only ever managed Dunfermline Athletic Football Club!4BR

Celebratory event

A spokesperson told 4BR: "It was a wonderful celebratory event, with the wonderful work of the management team at the Tullis Russell organisation, headed by Alan Douglas (above at European Championships), also fully recognised.

They have played an integral part in establishing such an effective and highly successful three tier band structure that continues to grow in strength and success."

They added: "This includes not just the contest victories, but the organisation’s involvement in the community from its annual concert to visits to local care homes and hospitals."