PIPES and drums played the sounds of Scotland through the town.

Colchester’s Lower Castle Park hosted a highland gathering as part of the Scotland in Colchester event.

Throughout the day there was a number of competitions for pipers, a junior highland dancing display and a Witham Air Cadets display.

Chief steward John Mcrae said: “It went really well but it was a scorcher.

“It was excellent as it was probably the best turn out we have ever had.

“I would say we saw about 1,000 people on the day.

“The crowd was really good, it was magnificent.

“I did feel sorry for the pipers and drummers wearing their attire in that heat.”

The competition was first organised in 1994 by Lieutenant Colonel Willie Allan on behalf of the London and South East Branch of the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association.

Colchester Council has supported Scotland in Colchester as one of the highlights of the outdoor musical season.

Mr Mcrae said: “Two judges flew down from Scotland to judge the piping and the drumming.

“We were delighted the Colchester Garrison Sergeant Major William Biggar joined us.”

Prizes for all the winners were awarded by Colchester’s mayor Gerard Oxford.