Glastonbury gets an official bagpiper

By Emma Dance

21st Aug 2022 | Local News

Craig MacFarlane - Glastonbury's official bagpiper
Craig MacFarlane - Glastonbury's official bagpiper

Glastonbury now has an official bagpiper.

The honour has been bestowed on town resident Craig MacFarlane, by Glastonbury Town Council.

Town Clerk Conor Ogilvie-Davidson said: "An official piece of bagpipe music was written to commemorate the Platinum Jubilee. Craig, being a local Scot and bagpipe player, was approached and asked to take part in our official celebrations for the Beacon Lighting on the Tor and then in the Community Procession of local children as Queens and Kings.

"It was felt by members that the contribution of the bagpipes in addition to the drums was so poignant that we wished at future occasions to have a Town Bagpiper."

Craig said: "I am delighted to be asked to be the town's civic piper – I'm very honoured really. I first came to Glastonbury in 1994, soon after I left the Army, and I've leaved here since 1998.

"I have piped at numerous functions over the years here, Including quite a few friend's funerals, and weddings too, as well as all sorts of town events including the First Frost Fayre. "As many will know I have busked occasionally by the War Memorial for almost 30 years.. I don't busk as much now, but I get asked often when I'll  be doing it again.

"I love Glastonbury, and am engaged to a beautiful local lady. I hope I can fulfil the role well and I'm sure there will be many interesting events for years to come.

"I was a Piper in the Scots Guards for five years so I'm no stranger to a bit of ceremony!"

 Craig will next be performing in his role at a Holy Thorn Planting on September 24 in St Dunstan's House Garden as part of Michaelmas.

Find out more about Craig and his piping on his Facebook page HERE.

     

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