The Rushen Silver Band raised £500 for local charity Sailing for the Disabled at a recent concert.

The event, which took place at St Columba’s Catholic church in Port Erin on Monday, January 24, marked the start of the band’s busy 2022 calendar.

Over recent years, it has become tradition that the band’s first concert of the year is used to raise money for local charities.

Previous concerts have benefitted Southern Befrienders and Graih.

Sailing for the Disabled was chosen for last year’s event, which had to be postponed due to Covid-19, and the band was delighted to be able to reschedule this year. 

Band chairman, Chris Weldon, said: ’Sailing for the Disabled are a fantastic local charity who do so much for people with disabilities, giving them confidence in trying new experiences.

’It was a pleasure to be able to help them.’

On their Facebook page, Sailing for the Disabled said: ’What an honour for our charity this event was.

’Rushen Silver Band, thank you so much for giving such an evening of beauty and donating to our cause.

’It was a great atmosphere, lovely banter and often very moving.

’Thank you also for the nautical number, Pirates of the Caribbean.’

The band’s next performance will be on Saturday, February 12, at Peel Cathedral as part of their music season.

Events later in the year will include taking part in the Guild, Laxey Brass Festival, and a visit from well known brass band composer and conductor Alan Fernie, who will be working with both the senior band and their development group, Ballafesson Brass.

The band would like to thank all who attended for giving generously, and St Columba’s Church for hosting the event.