A GROUP of 'Grumpy Old Pipers' have helped put a smile on people's faces with the restoration of a popular seafront path.

The Millport Piping Association, better known as The Grumpy Old Pipers of Millport, have been entertaining visitors and locals by playing at the war memorial each Wednesday for around 18 years.

They also collect donations to be distributed to local youth organisations and other good causes.

The very popular walk round Farland Point had become  overgrown and impassable.

The group decided that organising and paying for the proper clearing and re-opening of this path was indeed a good cause. 

Gardening contractor David Stevenson readily agreed to take on the task for a nominal fee, and has been busy for the past few weeks when free clearing the path.

Eric Smith, President of Millport Piping Association, said: "David has done a great job, and his hard work is greatly appreciated.

Millport pipers have raised funds for Farland Point path restoration works for benefit of communityMillport pipers have raised funds for Farland Point path restoration works for benefit of community (Image: Newsquest)

"The job is now all but complete, and visitors and locals can once again enjoy this beautiful walk.

"Growth has also been cleared at the bench in order that the sea view, which was completely blocked, is once again open to view.

"It is hoped that this path will remain clear in the future, and walkers are encouraged to take a pair of secateurs in their pocket to snip offending foliage as they go."

The 'Grumpy Old Pipers' was formed when a group of retired, mixed-ability bagpipe players got together to socialise, practice, and entertain the locals and visitors of Millport.

They meet every Wednesday at the local Royal British Legion Scotland in the town, and in the summer months, put on their kilts, 'grumpy' shirts, and play at the war memorial at the front. 

Before and after at Farland PointBefore and after at Farland Point (Image: Eric Smith)

Eric added: “Everyone, including ourselves, seems to enjoy listening, and donate coins to our box."

Each year, the Grumpy Old Pipers have managed to accumulate around £1,000 from these donations, and all of these funds are handed out to local youth organisations, as well as other deserving causes such as North Ayrshire Cancer Care.

The Millport Pipers Association welcomes pipers of any age who are free on Wednesday afternoons. For more details, email eslift@btinternet.com.