A MUSICAL showcase aims to raise funds for local charities.
For the past year stalwarts of the dale’s music scene Eddie Tinkler and James Dykes have been performing at care homes, lunch clubs and charity events, asking only for donations to charity for payment.
Now the Two Local Blokes have organised an evening’s entertainment featuring three other bands to raise even more money.
Mr Dykes, said: “When we did a charity gig at the cricket club for Teesdale Branch of Cancer Research they offered to pay us £85. We said no, we were doing it for fun. That is how it started and we’ve raised about £650.”
The idea for the showcase event on Friday, December 1, at Barnard Castle’s Workingmen’s Club, came about as a way to shine a spotlight on some of the best local musical talent.
Mr Tinkler said: “We thought if we can generate more money from that event it would help the charities.”
The showcase proceeds will be divided among the Well Beings of Barney, a group concerned with men’s mental health set up by Chris Johnson, The Clique and Teesdale Cancer Research UK.
Popular ukulele band D’ukes of Scarth will kick off the evening’s entertainment, followed by Button Hole Jam, then The Corner Boys with Two Local Blokes closing out the sets before a big finale featuring all musicians.
Mr Dykes said: “There is so much musical talent in the dale and we have picked just four groups for the evening. Each group will be performing a 30-minute set and then at the end of the evening all of us will be on stage for the finale.”
Mr Tinkler said: “It will be the best value ticket for the talent on stage and we’re hoping to double what we’ve already raised.”
Members of the Teesdale branch of Cancer Research UK will run a raffle on the night, while members of The Clique will be on the door.
Tickets cost £5 and are available by calling 078168 67942.
