THE Pakistani president Pervez Musharraf has stepped in at the last minute to allow a pipe band to play at tomorrow’s record-breaking piping attempt in Holyrood Park.

President Musharraf’s personal involvement came about when he learned that Patiala Pipe Band of Pakistan couldn’t afford to travel to Edinburgh’s Pipefest 2005.

The head of state said the trip was important for international relations and personally organised 31 flight tickets for the band, who touched down in Edinburgh yesterday.

Pipefest 2005, which is being held in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care Scotland, will take place in the playing fields behind the Palace of Holyroodhouse with more than 8000 pipers from around the world expected.