Welcome to the Worlds ... in Glasgow!

And there can be no bigger platform for pipe band members than the World Pipe Band championships.

Known affectionately as the Worlds, bands from all over the planet will descend on Glasgow on August 14 and 15 for the annual event.

And there will be a host of home-grown talent taking part too – with bands from Fraserburgh to the Borders competing.

Some 230 bands have entered the World Pipe Band Championships.

Fifteen nations are expected to be represented at Glasgow Green.

Ian Embelton, chief executive of the RSPBA said: “The huge entry coupled with the unprecedented overseas interest is building even greater anticipation for this year’s World Pipe Band Championships.

“It is a truly unique event featuring hundreds of performances from the best bands in the world challenging for the ultimate prize in Pipe Band competition.

“The 8000 pipers and drummers will have spent hundreds or even thousands of hours practising for this competition, making it an unforgettable experience.”

More than 100 bands will travel to Scotland to compete from countries all over the world including bands from Austria and Malaysia for the first time. Bands from Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, Canada, England, Oman, USA, New Zealand, Australia, Denmark, Switzerland, South Africa, Belgium and the Netherlands will also attend.

Some 50 bands are coming from outwith the United Kingdom and Ireland.

Glasgow Green is expected to welcome up to 8000 pipers and drummers. Advance tickets for the Grade 1 Arena where the best pipe band in the world will be crowned are also expected to sell out well ahead of the event.

Councillor Archie Graham, chairman of Glasgow Life and Depute Leader of Glasgow City Council, will be chieftain for the 2015 event.

He said: “The Worlds have been associated with Glasgow for over 60 years and in that time it has become one of the most anticipated events the city hosts each year.

“To have so many bands preparing to compete in the city is further confirmation of the importance of these championships and reinforces Glasgow’s reputation as a warm and welcoming host city.

“There is nothing to compare with the sights and sounds of Glasgow Green during The Worlds.”

The World Pipe Band Championships are a unique celebration of Scottish culture featuring outstanding musicians who have practised for years to reach the pinnacle of pipe band competition.

As well as the opportunity to enjoy world class performances the World Pipe Band Championships will also host Highland dancing competitions, a Highland Games, a children’s area, food village and trade stands.

The Worlds complete a week-long celebration of piping in Glasgow with Piping Live! bringing the best contemporary and traditional performances to the city from August 10 to August 16.

Tickets for the event range from as little as £2 for a concession ticket on Friday, August 14, to £28 for a ticket for the Grade 1 competition on Saturday afternoon where the battle for the World Championship will play out.

Family tickets for two adults and up to three children on Saturday, August 15, cost just £43 while children aged five or under won’t be charged.

Hospitality packages for Saturday are also available.

For further information visit the website www.theworlds.co.uk