Burnley bagpiper spreads cheer with uplifting street performance for NHS and key workers

Andy Mcleod's emotional rendition of 'Scotland The Brave' has filled the air around Cardinal Street at 8pm for the past two Thursdays.

Bagpipers across the country are banding together each week under #NHSthebrave and #pipeupforkeyworkers to salute NHS and key workers fighting the coronavirus crisis.

Andy (50), a trunker driver for Warburtons, said he was only too happy to join the cause and show his gratitude while lifting people's spirits.

"I just wanted to do something that might cheer people up a bit," said Andy, whose wife, Julie, is also a key worker. "The National Piping Centre put out a call for pipers last week and so I thought I'd do my bit.

"It was nice. Everybody was out clapping and cheering and I hope the bagpipes added a little cheer. People were telling me they couldn't wait for next week."

Andy, who plays with The Scots Guards Association Manchester, usually practises every Thursday at St Andrew's Church in town. For now though, he will be continuing to #pipeupforkeyworkers at the same time each week.

"I've been playing since 1994. It was something I had always wanted to learn. My dad's Scottish and I have a real passion for it.

"I'm going to keep on doing it every Thursday I think. Other streets have been asking me to perform, but we'll see."