My pipes were made by Colin Ross and cost me about £450 (but that was in 1983!).

I'm not sure if he is still building and selling new sets, but he is certainly still servicing them. Check by sending email to rosspipes@aol.com or ring 0191 252 6585.

The Northumbrian Piper's Society was advertising an "Absolute Beginners Weekend Course" in Whitney, Oxfordshire last March where instruments were provided.

I suggest you ring (Dave Shaw?) 01865 714778 to see if the excercise might be repeated.

Cheers,

Bob vG