The Black Watch Association Pipe Band was formed in 1968 mainly from ex-servicemen of the 1st and 6th Battalions the Black Watch. Todays bandsmen come from a variety of backgrounds.
In addition to supporting The Black Watch Association (Stoke-on-Trent) Midlands Branch at its various functions throughout the year, the band also plays at events ranging from fetes and carnivals to special musical events.
The band's most recent engagement was to play for the Potteries North District Scouts. The band led their St George's Day Parade in Tunstall from the Alexandra Park Shopping Centre, along Victoria Park Road then Furlong Road to Christ Church for their 2024 Annual service. Following the service the band led the parade as it made its way back to the Shopping Centre via the High Street.
In March 2024 the band was pleased to play for the opening of new premises for Nantwich Collectables at the Dagfields Crafts and Antiques Centre. Immediately prior to the new premises opening, the band played a selection of tunes including the march "Wha Wouldna Fight for Charlie" which was the Regimental March of the Cheshire Regiment. The proprietor of Nantwich Collectables is a former member of the Cheshires.
Earlier in the year, in February, the band played at The West End Village in Stoke for their 2024 Burns Night celebrations. After the band marched in to the centre and gave a 20 minute programme for the residents and guests, the haggis was piped in and the Address recited. Members of the band were then treated to a haggis supper topped off with a fine selection of afters.
In November 2023, the band played for the St. Andrew's Night Amateur Boxing Association Gala Dinner Show held at Bar Sports in Cannock. The band played a selection of tunes following a 5 course meal and prior to the commencement of bouts of Amateur England versus Scotland boxing.
In November the band was privileged to lead the 2023 Newcastle-under-Lyme Remembrance Day Parade. The band led the parade from the Civic Offices at Castle House to St. Giles' Church via the Ironmarket and the High Street. Following the Act of Remembrance, the band led the parade back to the civic offices for the salute.
For further information please check out the band's facebook page.