The death has been announced of one of the best known gentlemen in the solo piping world, Willie McCallum Snr., Campbeltown.

Willie (87) passed away after collapsing after attending the Donald MacLeod Memorial Competition in Stornoway, Isle of Lewis, where his son William placed second in the competition. He was pictured at the event only hours before taking ill.

Willie McCallum was a dedicated servant of piping, though not a player himself. He was instrumental in establishing the Kintyre Piping Society and dedicated himself to its promotion over a 60 year period.

The benefit that he brought to piping in that part of Argyll is incalculable. It was for this tireless work that he was awarded the Balvenie Medal for Services to Piping in 2003.

Willie travelled the world supporting his son but always had a kind word for other competitors too, especially the young player seeking encouragement.

His home in Campbeltown was always a warm, welcoming place for pipers and was known to dozens of recitalists, judges and competitors over the years.

Willie was instrumental in establishing the Springbank Invitational competition, one of the highlights of the Scottish solo calendar.

Willie McCallum will be sadly missed but his legacy for piping will live on.

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