Ukulele group raise funds for foodbank

A Fife music group is hoping to raise funds to the tune of thousands to help a local cause, with the launch of a fuindraising page.

The Fife Ukulele Orchestra normally met each week at Burntisland’s Sands Hotel, practicing and rehearsing for various gigs in the area.

However, with lockdown still in force, the group is looking at ways to help those affected most by the pandemic, by raising funds for Kirkcaldy Foodbank.

The orchestra has been meeting weekly online on Monday evening, with around, 15-20 of the members.

The idea is that each person donates £1.50 per session to charity, meaning £15 per 10 sessions.

It has raised £350 so far with a target of £2000.

It aims to reach the target through donations from the public and by donating all profits for performances through 2020 and 2021.

The orchestra’s Chris Evans said: “Usually we’d be asking members for a few £s for the use of the hall at the Sands, but because our Zoom sessions have been free we could give money to charity.

“We do various performances on request throughout the year and usually we get a donation to our coffers, but we can put that money into charity when we get back to performing again.

“The Sands have been making 30 meals a day during lockdown to give to the foodbank in Burntisland, the umbrella for which is Kirkcaldy Foodbank.

“Some of the members wanted to follow suit, so we thought that was a good way of giving back to the local community.

“We’ve only just launched the page and we’ve already had some donations so it all adds up.

“It’s something we could end up doing for the next couple of years.”

The group is already looking ahead to when the lockdown rules are relaxed so it can get back to performing and rehearsing.

Chris added: “Whenever we can get together, probably socially distanced, we thought about doing something open-air, maybe rehearsing at Burntisland beach or Silver Sands.”

To donate, go to https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/fife-ukulele-orchestra-kirkcaldy-foodbank