A winter concert, headlined by Sir Richard Arkwright's Masson Mills Band and singers from 'Key Voices', has raised almost £2,000 to support health projects in Rwanda.
Organised by Bakewell’s Heather Thomas of The Goboka Rwanda Trust, the event, which was held at a theatre in Great Longstone was attended by 90 local people. It promised an evening of fun, music and laughter, all whilst raising money for a great cause.
Following a recent visit to Rwanda by Heather and charity trustee, Tony Brennan, it was decided that the proceeds from this year's concert would go towards providing medical insurance for some of the poorer communities the Trust works with. Without health insurance, no-one can access medical care from either health outlets or hospitals in Rwanda, but many people cannot afford the £2 per person, per year, fee.
Heather said, “The response on the night from the audience was fantastic, over £1,300 was raised on the evening which, before the end of the day, had been raised to the required £1,500 by a kind donor. Furthermore, the following day a further donor came forward with a gift-aided donation, which took the total to £1,800.
“So, in addition to providing the health insurance, the surplus money had bought some goats for a group of widows we met whilst out in Rwanda and who we promised to support when we could.”
She continues: “As always, there was a varied selection of music from the Band - which ranged from Rossini's well-known 'La Danza' through two beautiful Cornet and Trombone solos, to well-known film scores like 'Jaws 2' and 'Skyfall' and with a finale of music from The Galaxies.
“Some players had rushed from the National Brass Band Championships held at The Royal Albert Hall the day before to take part in the Concert.
“In contrast, we were entertained by some delightful singers from 'Key Voices' – one of four choirs trained by Emma Hopkins, perhaps best known for her 'Perfect Pitch' Choir, who, over the years, have appeared on our TV screens a number of times and who regularly offer productions in the local area.
“It can never be emphasised enough, that all these performers offer their services completely free to support the work of The Goboka Rwanda Trust and have done so for many years now. We are more than indebted to them and really feel now that they are part of 'our team’!”
“Thanks to everyone who supported the event – we know you had a great night, but you have also helped so many people who you may never meet, but who know you support them and say a big thank you.”
To support The Goboka Rwanda Trust, visit the website at https://www.the gobokarwandatrust. co.uk/
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