A MUCH-loved regimental band raised the roof and funds for charity with a military concert to remember.
The Band of the Brigade of the Gurkhas entertained a packed house with a mixed repertoire, at Darlington’s Dolphin Centre, for the 17th annual extravaganza.
Bandsmen visit the region every year for the annual passing out parade at Catterick Garrison. Sponsored every year by Vauxhall dealers Sherwoods, the aim of the concert is to raise as much money as possible for the Gurkha Welfare Trust.
Since 2010, the concerts have realised £11,000 a year for the Trust. This year the Yorkshire Branch set an even higher target, aiming to raise £15,000 to pay for an extension to Shree Kalika Lower Secondary School, in Pankhu village, in Okhaldhunga, Nepal, which was damaged in the earthquakes of 2015. This year the concert also featured the Hartlepool Ladies Choir.
Retired Lieutenant Colonel Keith Ryding, chairman of the Yorkshire branch of the Gurkha Welfare Trust (GWT), said: “Medical costs are increasing exponentially as many of our servicemen are now aged over 90. As well as residential homes, we provide care in people’s own houses.
“The GWT continues to pay a welfare pension to more than 6,000 old soldiers and widows and, as well as helping the older generation, we also feel it is important to look after the young, hence our involvement with the school.”
Alasdair MacConachie, chairman of Sherwoods, which has dealerships in Northallerton, Darlington and Stockton, added: “Once again The Band of the Brigade of the Gurkhas provided a wonderful evening of entertainment supported ably by Hartlepool Ladies Choir. Everyone there enjoyed themselves immensely and raised a commendable sum to support the excellent work of the GWT.”