Lethbridge Police Service launches pipe band

The newly formed Lethbridge Police Service Pipe Band is seen in a handout photo. (Lethbridge Police Service)

The Lethbridge Police Service now has a pipe band.

The police service says it signed a memorandum of understanding with two community pipe bands – The Legion Pipe Band and the Bridge City Highlanders Pipes and Drums – on Jan. 20, amalgamating the groups and marking the creation of the new band.

“This is an historic moment for our police service,” said Chief Shahin Mehdizadeh. “Pipe bands have long been a part of military regiments. It’s a deep-rooted tradition we’re excited share with the community.”

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The newly formed Lethbridge Police Service Pipe Band will serve as a ceremonial unit, performing at internal and external events.

It is comprised of some two dozen police and civilian volunteers.

“Our two pipe bands are excited to join together under the umbrella of the Lethbridge Police Service,” said Scott Sinclair, interim pipe major of the LPS Pipe Band. “The opportunity to represent the Police Service and the City of Lethbridge seems a perfect fit.”

The first official performance of the Lethbridge Police Service Pipe Band will be at the Bringing Hearts Home Gala on Feb. 1.