Henllys Pipes and Drums have been given £1,000 thanks to the sales of plastic bags at the One Stop shop next to where they practice.
Kay Gregory, the shop’s manager, told Steve Parker, the band’s secretary about the grant scheme and he put in an application.
The One Stop Shop, Carriers for Causes scheme provides grants to community-based projects from the sale of its carrier bags. Carriers for Causes gave the band a grant of £1,000 so that they could purchase much-needed equipment.
Steve said: “We have been very fortunate lately in that we have had donations from Henllys locals Robbie Evans of Bridgetime Transport in Cwmbran, Mike Perry and local businessman Wally Sivewright.
“This grant from Carriers for Causes, along with those donations, has allowed the band to purchase its own set of drums and other much need equipment to ensure that the band is properly equipped to represent the community and to establish itself as a permanent fixture in Henllys.
“We can not stress just what a massive difference this income will make to the band. On behalf of all our members we say a massive thank you to these lovely people and to the One Stop Shop.”
Henllys Pipes & Drums started out in October last year with just four members. In just 10 months membership has now grown to 18 members with the youngest being eight-years-old and the oldest is 68-years-old. They have members made up of both men and women and at the moment are looking to recruit pipers with some experience and a drum major to lead the band at parade/marching events. The band prides itself on its openness and friendly attitude. Steve said: “Our band is as much about fun and friendship as it is about making music”.
The band performs at events of all types and can provide a mini band, full band or solo pipers for events such as weddings and funerals. The band will next be performing in Friars Walk, Newport on Saturday 24 August from 10.30am.
Join or book Henllys Pipes and Drums
For more information on either booking or joining the band contact Steve Parker on 07479 957341 or email [email protected].