Three more bands rise to the foodbank collection challenge

Three additional bands have taken up the foodbank challenge laid down by Gareth Bowman and the Coalburn Brass Band Family and promoted by the Scottish Brass Band Association.

Dunaskin Doon, Dalkeith & Monktonhall and Lochgelly bands have indicated that they will be taking part in the National Foodbank Collection Appeal after the initiative was proposed by Gareth, musical director of Coalburn Silver Band, following the launch of its second annual collection for the Clydesdale Foodbank.

Dunaskin is running its campaign into February and will collect items for the South Ayrshire Foodbank to help raise awareness for the valuable work they do in the local community, where so many families are living on or below the poverty line.

Band members have been asked to pick up an extra item or two when doing their weekly shop if they can afford it, and any friends and family of band members who would care to join the campaign would be most welcome.

Lochgelly Band will also be participating in the foodbank collection appeal to the end of February in support of the Benarty Foodbank. “Our members are taking part in this fantastic initiative,” explained the band’s principal cornet Lynsey McIlwraith.

“If any of our friends and supporters would also like to help by donating to our collection then please PM us or pop by the bandhall between 5pm and 5.45pm on Sundays or 6.30pm - 7.00pm on Wednesdays.”

Dalkeith & Monktonhall secretary Heather Henderson said that the band is collecting for its local foodbank for the rest of January and members of the training band are also involved. 

Gareth commented: “The Coalburn Brass Band Family are aware of the challenging times that many in our local communities are experiencing.

We were delighted to help in some small way by taking collections at our rehearsals and delivering these to the Clydesdale Food Bank.

“It would be fantastic to see widespread involvement in this initiative to support local communities, where possible,” adds Gareth.