History of the Band

Banbury and District – Laidlaw Memorial Pipes and Drums traces its roots back to 1961, when it was formed by John ‘Jock’ Laidlaw, a former piper of The Queen’s Own Cameron Highlanders and holder of the Burma Star medal. John is believed to have been the last piper to play into action in World War II, during the Burma campaign.

John was also the nephew of Daniel Laidlaw VC – the legendary "Piper of Loos" – of the King’s Own Scottish Borderers. Daniel Laidlaw was awarded the Victoria Cross for his bravery at the Battle of Loos in 1915, where he famously mounted the parapet and played his company into battle under heavy fire, boosting morale and leading the charge until he was wounded.

John Laidlaw and the Early Years

Throughout the 1960s, John and his wife Margaret built a thriving community pipe band. They welcomed young players and competed in numerous events, including the World Pipe Band Championships in Nottingham in 1979. The band became a familiar and respected presence at galas, parades, and competitions across the country.

New Leadership and International Performances

In the early 1980s, John passed the baton to long-time members Ian Allen (ex Scots Guards) and Bob Shakespear. Later, Richard Jasper and Steve Duffy (also ex Scots Guards) took over leadership through the 1990s, guiding the band to success at competitions and performances at prestigious venues including Blenheim Palace, Warwick Castle, Highclere Castle, and even abroad in Germany, France, Italy, and The Philippines.

Transition and Revival

In the early 2000s, the band merged with the Scots Guards Association Pipe Band in Windsor to further its RSPBA ambitions, entering a period of suspended animation. However, in 2022, following a chance meeting at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Richard Jasper and Dr. Ian Graham decided to revive the band.

With a handful of returning members, the support of Mark McLaughlan (a drummer and piper), a few remaining funds, and some equipment from Richard’s garage, Banbury’s pipe band was reborn.

Laidlaw Memorial Pipes and Drums Today

The band now proudly bears the name Laidlaw Memorial Pipes and Drums, wearing the Royal Stewart tartan in tribute to both John and Daniel Laidlaw, who wore the same tartan during their military service.

Today, the band is actively recruiting pipers and drummers of at least RSPBA Grade 3 standard, and also supports a development section for those aspiring to compete. With a renewed sense of purpose and a growing membership, the band continues to honour its rich heritage while looking to the future.