102 Battalion REME Band provides a greater public understanding, recognition and appreciation of the history and traditions of the Battalion and the TA in general by helping keep the Army in the public eye. The Pipe Band plays at a variety of military events throughout the NE of England such as the Army in York Festival as well as at public events such as the Salute Our Heroes Concert held in the Sage, Gateshead.

The Band also plays at events further a field in the UK such as the REME Corp weekend (Berkshire) and in support of REME Association week ends. In recent years the Band has represented the UK throughout Europe including: Belgium, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Macedonia, Spain and The Sudan.

In 2009 the Battalion Band accompanied the REME Corp Band to the Moscow Military Music Festival as the UK representation at the event.

In early 2010 four Pipers from the Band again accompanied the REME Corp Band in representing the UK by playing at a series of concerts in New Delhi, India.

Also in 2010 the Band will travel to Holland and Luxemburg to play at military musical events were they will be joined by military bands from other nations including other military bands from the UK.

Joining the Band

The Band is always on the lookout for new members who can contribute to a band with strong military traditions and history and we are actively recruiting both Pipers and Drummers at present. Those wishing to join the Pipes and Drums are not required to become serving members of the Territorial Army but we will support fully any who wish to do so as the Band is currently a mix of serving TA soldiers, retired TA soldiers and Civilians.

The Band has excellent support in the form of uniforms, equipment and practice facilities Music training takes place every Drill Night which for the Band is a Tuesday night. All TA Band members have a REME military trade, such as Vehicle Mechanic, as well as being a musician and the TA members of the Band are expected to complete the mandatory military training and 15 day camp each year in order to qualify for TA bounty.

To enquire about joining the Pipes and Drums call or email the Band Secretary, Bryan Robinson on 01325 320418, or the Band President Major GR Crozier at Headquarters 102 Battalion REME, The Aycliffe Armoury, Northfield Way, Newton Aycliffe, Co. Durham, DL5 6UR, 01325 375 043, 102REME-BHQ-PASO@mod.uk.