Mid Ulster Section honours Syerla & District Pipe Band’s World Champion Drum Corps
The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association Northern Ireland Branch - Mid Ulster Section has formally recognised the outstanding achievements of Syerla & District Drum Corps, following their remarkable success at the World Pipe Band Championships in 2025.
At a special presentation event held recently in The Royal Hotel, Cookstown, the Section presented a commemorative glass trophy to mark Syerla’s triumph as World Champion Drum Corps in Grade 3B last August.
The award was presented by Mid Ulster Section Chair Trevor Wilson to Syerla tenor drummers Ruby Evans and Katelyn Crooks, with Section President Mr Sam Glasgow also in attendance.
Speaking at the event, Mr Wilson said: “It is wonderful to mark this occasion and the whole Mid Ulster Section is incredibly proud of the drummers of Syerla & District for all their achievements throughout the 2025 season, especially on winning the Worlds. This diverse drum corps embodies the true qualities of our pipe bands in Mid Ulster – passion, dedication, friendship, professionalism, and the determination to succeed!”
Syerla & District, from Moygashel, enjoyed an exceptional 2025 season, finishing runner‑up in the World Pipe Band Championships overall, whilst also securing the titles of Northern Ireland Branch Champion of Champions for both band and drum corps.
Following their success, the band was upgraded to Grade 3A by the RSPBA's Music Board on 23 September 2025.
Leading Drummer Billy Black, received the JB Salmon Memorial Trophy for the Grade 3B World Champion Drum Corps.
The 2026 World Pipe Band Championships – "The Worlds" – will be held at Glasgow Green, Scotland, on August 14–15, featuring over 8,000 top pipers and drummers.