Community spirit ‘off the scale’ at fundraising gigs
COMMUNITY spirit was ‘ off the scale’ at two music events which raised more than £1,500 to support a Fort William family.
‘Ryan’s Gig’ took place in the Crofter Bar last Saturday night, January 14.
Four bands performed and instead of buying tickets, revellers were encouraged to make a donation to help the family of Ryan Whiteford who was diagnosed with leukaemia just before Christmas.
Brian Jamieson, a family friend of the Whitefords, helped organise the events and performed with his band Paradox. Brian told The Oban Times the evenings were a great success and that while he could not believe people’s generosity, he also was not surprised. He said: ‘The Crofter was rammed and the atmosphere was brilliant.
‘It is January, people are skint and the weather has been rubbish, but everyone was there to have a good time and for a good cause. The bands were in seriously top form so I think the crowd were wanting to show their support for the family but also their appreciation for some excellent performances. I’m a Glasgow boy but the Fort is my home as well and I’m always proud to call it that!’
Playing alongside Paradox were We are Soul, Cigar Box and Soltie Wotaa.
Another event in MacChuills, Glasgow, raised £400, including £100 from the bar.
‘A big thank you to MacChuills and the Crofter who also added £ 350 to the pot. I know the Whiteford family well and although things have been tough for them, a couple of days before the gig they found out Ryan’s leukaemia, which is the most treatable form, looks as though it is in remission, so the night had a sense of celebration about it as well.
‘There is a long way to go for Ryan but it was really nice to have a bit of good news and a bit of optimism.’