Pipers came from all over the world

The event was launched by actor Ewan McGregor, who appeared on a video link from Australia where he is filming the new Star Wars film.

McGregor, who is Millennium Pipes' honorary drum president, has played the pipes since his childhood.

He said : "I wanted to be part of this great event which will be such a brilliant celebration of the best of Scotland's music, dance and traditions, especially as it's for such a great cause.

"Some of my family are playing the pipes and marching and I just wish that I could be there with them.

"We all love the music. I'll be thinking of everyone taking part and wishing them all the best."

The brain behind the record-breaking attempt is Thomas Grotrian, 26, whose mother Sarah Grotrian is secretary of Marie Curie Cancer Care in Scotland.

�500,000 target

Ms Grotrian said: "The attempt at the world record for the biggest pipe band in history will be officially logged and adjudicated during the event and we're hoping to break the record, as well as raise the roofs.

"We are also hoping to raise at least �500,000 for the charity with the assistance of BT Scotland who have kindly sponsored the event."

Ms Grotrian added: "Some of the pipers who are marching have lost a loved one to cancer and know all too well the importance of the kind of care which Marie Curie Cancer Care provides.

"So it is vital that we raise funds to allow the charity to continue with its work."