Stow Pipe band has returned from another fantastic trip to the Carnivale di Pont Saint Martin in the Aosta Valley, Italy. The band also played in the Carnival in 2002. Once again the band was overwhelmed by the welcome and friendship of the people of Pont Saint Martin.

The Programme

Saturday 21st

The aeroplane landed in a snow covered Turin which turned into heavy rain by the time the coach had delivered us safely (except Ian) to the Bouledrome in PSM. Ian decided to make his own way from Turin Airport. Ian's epic odyssey, as he is transformed from a dapper Newstead (ex-Melrose) gentleman to a homeless refugee, clutching his remaining possessions - a bottle of Bacardi in a paper bag and a toothbrush, will be posted on a separate web page when Ian feels able to recount this tale. It's quite similar to the film Trading Places with Ian as Dan Aykroyd. SR was however quite surprised when Ian's wife phoned at the airport telling us to leave Ian behind.

The band arrived in PSM, quickly ate, and then had to put on the capes as the rain beat down on PSM. The torchlit parade was not dampened by the rain and the parade marched over the Roman bridge and on to the Bouledome for the evening dance. Favourite tune - YMCA. Odour appeared.

Sunday 22nd MUCKLE MERCH DAY

The weather forecast was rain and snow but the sun shone down on PSM. A short play in the morning was followed by the first Muckle Merch. Tommy Boland arrived just in time to join in the first stamina test.

The band played excellently and were treated to mulled wine at the half way point. The band were however still puzzled by an odour following them.

Monday 23rd BUSHTUCKER TRIAL DAY (BEAN DAY)

A short parade in the morning (odour was worse) was rewarded with the traditional feast of beans and other things. Alan McGill amazed everyone with his love for beans, pig fat and pig skin, and polished off several platefuls. Ian's case arrived (odour disappeared, funny man in cape disappeared).

There was chariot racing in the afternoon after which the band played on stage at the square while everybody danced. A brilliant day. The band were easily at their best which is surely a coincidence, just as the first prizes at the Scottish Championships and L&B Mini Bands, that Biff wasn't playing at the time (sore head).

Tuesday 23rd ANOTHER MUCKLE MERCH DAY

The second muckle merch was another stamina test as was the wait in the cold. For once Mr Baigrie was unable to speak. He made up for it later as he tried to down a jug of wine in one go. The band joined in the drinking songs which did wonders for the playing later on.

The torchlit parade and fireworks and closing dance were brilliant.

Wednesday 24th - 03:00 AM

The dance finished at around 02:10 am, the bus arrived at 02:45 am. We were in Edinburgh by 10:30 am although we had to break into Turin Airport first.