Fans rally behind band after instrument loss

Fans of an award-winning folk band have helped raise thousands of pounds to replace their instruments after their van was allegedly set alight deliberately.

The group, Hò-rò, have a series of concerts lined up later this month and said they were left “absolutely heartbroken” after losing the “priceless” equipment.

The Highlands-based band, winnersofadannykyleaward at the Celtic Connections festival, had recently purchased an electronic bass drum and a mixing desk, both of which were stored in the van.

Police Scotland were called after the vehicle was discovered on fire in the Govan area of Glasgow on Wednesday.

A 47-year-old man was arrested in connection with the incident.

He appeared at Glasgow Sheriff Court yesterday, where he pleaded not guilty to two charges of wilful fire raising and one charge of theft. He was remanded in custody.

A crowdfunding appeal set up by fans of the band has raised more than £3,000 in the space of 24 hours.

Sean Cousins, who plays drums in the group, said: “We are absolutely heartbroken, we have worked so hard to get to where we are at the moment and saved up as much as we could to buy the van and the good equipment so we could sound as good as possible.”