Clap for Conner: How a Fife town celebrated young piper’s 21st

Conner Pratt, from Coaltown of Balgonie, is so highly regarded in his community, where he is also known as ‘The Fife Piper’, that family and friends rallied around to ensure that his special birthday wasn’t forgotten completely on Thursday.

Wearing full Highland dress, Conner piped in his street every Thursday evening to support the NHS.

He also played 150 plus performances at local care homes throughout the Kingdom every Wednesday and Saturday afternoons standing outside to maintain social distancing to entertain the residents.

At his own cost, he also played for NHS staff’s relatives outside their homes for 21st birthdays and anniversaries when a member of the team contacted him to advise of a special occasion. He has now played at 100 birthdays and, sadly, many funerals also during the 12-week lockdown, bringing a little bit of comfort to the bereaved.

As a result of his generous nature running errands for the elderly in his own street, word got out that he was about to celebrate his 21st birthday.

Neighbours contacted Conner’s mum, Audrey, and suggested that as he could not have a party, that they parade down the street clapping for Conner for his 21st thanking him in their own small way for his efforts during the pandemic.

Conner is studying music at university and is also a member of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo band and has played for the Queen many times.

Just prior to lockdown he played for the Commonwealth Church Services in London.

He has played all over the world with the Tattoo and the Army Cadets, and is in much demand for his piping skills.

Conner’s mum Audrey, dad Stewart and sister Morgan commented: “We are extremely proud of Conner and the young man he has become.

“His character and personal qualities have been shown throughout these uncertain times by helping those around him in a time of need. Conner has done everything off of his own back to use his talents as a piper to bring a smile to the faces of many around Fife, asking nothing in return. I hope he sees the positive impact he has made to everyone’s life for the past 21 years.”

Conner’s best friend, Stephen Smith, said: “Conner is one of the funniest and most kind hearted people you could ever meet.

“Having known him for years ,I have watched him grow as both a person and musician.

“To see him using his talents as a bagpiper to spread happiness and positivity is fantastic and appreciated by so many. He has used this difficult time to put a smile on everyone’s face, young and old.

“So, on his 21st, it’s important that we celebrate not only his birthday, but what he has done for us all.

“I am extremely proud of Conner and honoured to call him my best friend.”