NH Teens Recover Prized Bagpipes Seized At Canadian Border Over Ivory

LONDONDERRY, N.H. (CBS) – Campbell Webster and Eryk Bean, teenagers from New Hampshire, are rock stars in the world of bagpipes.

But they almost lost their prized possessions when their bagpipes were seized over the weekend.

"Both of us I think were quite upset watching the border patrol agents seizing our pipes right in front of us," said Webster.

The teens were coming back from a competition in Canada when the bagpipes were taken because they contain ivory, even though they have a certificate verifying the ivory is authorized.

"These bagpipes are 1936, 1958, they have nothing to do with elephants being killed," said Lezlie Webster, Campbell's mother.

Campbell's bagpipes have extra significance. They are a priceless family heirloom. His father used them to play for Queen Elizabeth II on a daily basis for several years.

The families called on New Hampshire's senators whom they believe helped expedite the release of the bagpipes just in time for a prestigious competition in Scotland.

The boys leave tonight and loaner bagpipes wouldn't have cut it.

"These bagpipes are some of the best pipes you can find," said Bean. "It wouldn't be good to go over there and try to compete with an inferior bagpipe."

MORE LOCAL NEWS FROM CBS BOSTON