MORE than 200 pipe bands from around the world will compete at the World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow next month.

Some 225 pipe bands from 17 countries, including Brazil and Mexico, will compete at the event, which is being held over two days for the first time.

'The Worlds has been associated with Glasgow for more than 60 years.

Last year, the event attracted crowds of more than 35,000.

The event will take place on August 17 and 18 on Glasgow Green. Both days of the competition are also being streamed live on the internet. Saturday's coverage will be available via www.theworlds.co.uk/watchlive and Sunday's coverage will be live at www.bbc.co.uk/worlds

The Field Marshal Montgomery Pipe Band from Belfast will battle to retain their 2011 and 2012 World Champions titles.

Ian Embelton, the chief executive of The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association said: "We took the decision to change to a two-day event after extensive consultation with bands and they have responded with a huge entry.

"I am particularly looking forward to welcoming bands from Brazil and Mexico who will undoubtedly be one of the many highlights of The Worlds.

"There is nothing quite like the sights and sounds of Glasgow Green during The World Pipe Band Championships and this year could be the best yet."

The World Pipe Band Championships is organised by Glasgow Life on behalf of The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association.