TALENTED members of Johnstone Pipe Band are rapidly becoming stars of the small screen – and it’sall thanks to popular STV newsreader John Mackay. Scottish Television’s new online facility – Scotland on TV – is currently playing host to a video blog titled ‘Diary of a Pipe Band’. The innovative online channel is following the fortunes of Johnstone Pipe Band as members gear up for the 2009 World Pipe Band Championships, set to be staged at Glasgow Green next August. Scotland Today chief anchor John, from Erskine, is a big fan – as his sons Scott and Ross play in the band. He told the Paisley Daily Express: “Both of my boys take it very seriously indeed. “I followed them all through the summer and couldn’t believe the amount of hard work that went on behind the scenes to make the band a success. “It comes across as a glamorous pastime, with band members kitted out in smart uniforms and making great music on their pipes and drums, but the reality is much different. Decided “They really put in a shift and I was completely taken aback when I watched them at close quarters. It was then that I decided to put something together to give them a bit of a boost and some much-needed exposure.” Through John’s fortnightly video diary, the Johnstone band have become famous the world over and have received thousands of ‘virtual visits’ from fans. John, 38, explained: “We’ve already had positive feedback globally, so it seems to be working well. “We’re trying to update it regularly and the ‘stars’ are beginning to shake off their camera-shy personas. “I was taken aback by just how popular piping is. I hope the video diaries capture the essence of piping and what makes a band tick. I shoot all the footage, with help from my son Scott, then edit it and then it is put online.” Over the coming weeks and months, John’s video diary will concentrate on issues other than just next year’s World Championships. Areas to receive exposure include solo competitions, in which some pipers participate, the popularity of piping among young people and the rising number of girls who are taking part. Some of the younger band members have also set up offshoot groups to play the pipes in a more contemporary style. One of John’s main aims is to get ‘inside’ the band and find out what makes it tick. Obvious personalities have emerged, such as Pipe Major Keith Bowes, who said: “I think the video diary is a great idea. “Personally, I find it difficult to watch myself at times but I suppose it is more for the younger members. “I know it’s getting us a lot more exposure and that’s a good thing. Like all other organisations, you hope that it can eventually lead to sponsorship. Important “We have between 55 and 60 members and, while success at the World Championships is important, it’s not the be-all-and-end-all. “There is absolutely no pressure put on members. They joined the band to enjoy themselves and all we ask is that they work hard and try to improve.” Keith has also revealed that John had better stick with his day job at STV – as his piping skills leave a lot to be desired. He added: “John is awful. He should maybe stick to filming those who CAN pipe!” John is hoping the video diary will drum up support for the band to help them meet the financial challenges they face. He said: “It costs in the region of £35,000 a year to run the band and I know they’re always in the market for sponsorship. “They have a large number of local pipers – especially from Johnstone and Erskine – simply because of the excellent tuition they get. “Some of the younger pipers get a kick from seeing themselves perform on the internet channel and that inspires them to keep working at their piping to be the best they can.” l You can find out more details about the band’s history at http://homepage.ntlworld.com/xenophanes/Home.htm and Scotland on TV can be accessed at www.stv.tv/Scotlandontv | 
