The event is the longest-established Ulster Scots Festival in the British Isles, having been founded in 1993.

Uphall Station Pipe Band will be leading this year's Broadisland Gathering parade and also playing in the village during the September 6 festival events.

The band, which originates close to Edinburgh, is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, making the trip across the North Channel all the more special.

Almost 20 playing members are expected to make the journey to Ballycarry for the event, led by Pipe Major David McKay, who founded the band in 1998.

The band is a familiar participant in gala days in the West Lothian and Edinburgh areas and Broadisland Gathering festival director Dr David Hume said they would be bringing a welcome reminder of links with Scotland when they take part in the Gathering.

"We are delighted to have the confirmation that Uphall Station Pipe Band will be with us for the 16th annual Gathering, and we greatly look forward to their participation in the event," he said.

"The band will be joined by Drumlough Highland Pipe Band from Rathfriland in Co Down and the Major Sinclair Memorial Pipe Band from Co Antrim for this year's events, and we will also have a fantastic Drum Major display organised by Drum Major Brian Wilson, including several who have competed in the World's event in California this year,"

"The planning is well progressed for the Gathering this year, and there will be additional car parks and additional marquees for entertainments," he said.

The organisers hope to top the 5,000 spectators who came to Ballycarry last year for the Gathering and say that there will be plenty of entertainment lined up to ensure an enjoyable day for all.