CELEBRATIONS were in order for members of Inverclyde-based Riverside Youth Band after it was awarded more than £8,000 by the National Lottery.
The funding boost, of £8,200, comes from The National Lottery Community Fund.
It will be used by the Port Glasgow youth music organisation to invest in more instruments, as it continues to welcome young people from across Inverclyde and beyond to its ranks.
Duncan Galbraith, chairman of Riverside Youth Band, said: “This funding award from the National Lottery is, quite literally, music to our ears.
“Over the past decade, Riverside Youth Band has steadily grown as it continues to welcome more and more young people to make music in a safe, nurturing environment, and this funding award enables us to continue to widen our provision to ensure we can continue to provide opportunities through music.”
The band recently took to the stage in Port Glasgow Community Campus for its 11th annual summer concert. An audience of more than 200 people enjoyed the organisation’s Youth and Training bands in action under musical director Mark Good, as well as the organisation’s group for youngsters taking the first steps in their musical journeys, the Riverside Rookies, led by Laura Good.
Kate Still, The National Lottery Community Fund, Scotland chair, said: “National Lottery funding can make amazing things happen in local communities across the country.
“This project delivered by Riverside Youth Band is a great example of community activity in action, showing just what can be achieved when people come together for a common cause or to help others.
The band now turns its attention to its awards night and ceilidh on Friday, as it brings down the curtain on a busy year by recognising members’ achievements.
Riverside Youth Band rehearses in Port Glasgow New Parish Church on Friday afternoons, with more young brass and percussion players welcome to get involved. Those interested can contact Duncan on info@riversideyouthband.co.uk or call 07974 106 888.
