An Angus teenage musician is preparing for the biggest date in his bagpiping career playing for the Queen at a major world event.
James MacCallum, 16, of Barry, is playing with his fellow National Youth Pipe Band of Scotland (NYPBoS) members at Edinburgh on Wednesday when the Queen is opening a new Borders railway line at Waverley Station.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon will also be attending.
Wednesday is the day the Queen becomes the country’s longest-reigning monarch, so the world’s media will be watching as James and his fellow pipers and drummers entertain.
James, who has been piping for around seven years and is a member of Arbroath RBLS Pipe Band, said: “I was delighted when I was picked to play at such a historic event.
“Band numbers are limited due to security concerns, so there are only 24 of us playing.
“It’s an early start I’m catching the 6.03am train from Carnoustie but it will be worth it to be able to look back and say I was there.”
The NYPBoS consists of the country’s best young pipers and it is based in Glasgow. James is in the development band and has been a member for three years.
NYPBoS director Alisdair McLaren said: “I am delighted that the National Youth Pipe Band of Scotland have been invited to perform as such a prestigious event.
“It will be only the second time that the NYPBoS has performed for the Queen so it is a great honour, which we are greatly looking forward to.”
So is James nervous about the big day?
“I’ve played in front of quite a few big audiences now so the nerves aren’t as bad as they used to be. That said, I’ve never played when the world has been watching but I’m more excited than nervous,” he said.
“I think my grannies will be glued to the news channels to see if I put in an appearance.”