Band launches new fundraising initiative

Supporters of Major Sinclair Memorial Pipe Band have launched a new initiative aimed at raising much needed funding for the band.
By The Newsroom
Published 25th Mar 2016, 07:00 BST
South Antrim MLA Paul Girvan and his wife Alderman Mandy Girvan and their son Councillor Tim Girvan pictured at the drums they each sponsored on behalf of The Sinclair Funders. The Girvan family helped launch The Sinclair Funders fundraising initiative with a generous family donation of £200. Also included are MSM Pipe Band members John Fittis (Pipe Major), Matthew Shaw (Drum Sergeant), Oliver McIlwaine, Zach McCauley and Evie McKeown. INNT 13-504CON Pic by John KellySouth Antrim MLA Paul Girvan and his wife Alderman Mandy Girvan and their son Councillor Tim Girvan pictured at the drums they each sponsored on behalf of The Sinclair Funders. The Girvan family helped launch The Sinclair Funders fundraising initiative with a generous family donation of £200. Also included are MSM Pipe Band members John Fittis (Pipe Major), Matthew Shaw (Drum Sergeant), Oliver McIlwaine, Zach McCauley and Evie McKeown. INNT 13-504CON Pic by John Kelly
South Antrim MLA Paul Girvan and his wife Alderman Mandy Girvan and their son Councillor Tim Girvan pictured at the drums they each sponsored on behalf of The Sinclair Funders. The Girvan family helped launch The Sinclair Funders fundraising initiative with a generous family donation of £200. Also included are MSM Pipe Band members John Fittis (Pipe Major), Matthew Shaw (Drum Sergeant), Oliver McIlwaine, Zach McCauley and Evie McKeown. INNT 13-504CON Pic by John Kelly

The Sinclair Funders initiative was officially launched last week at the Torrens Hall in Doagh, where the special guests were South Antrim MLA Paul Girvan, his wife Alderman Mandy Girvan and their son Cllr Tim Girvan, who each sponsored a drum on behalf of The Sinclair Funders.

After the formal part of the evening, parents, friends and guests enjoyed listening to the band play a great selection of music.

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The Ballyclare band has had a resurgence in recent years and is moving from strength to strength with support from the local community.

“Our band is a non-profit organisation that works tirelessly to make traditional music central to our local community,” a spokesperson explained. “Throughout the year we take part in church parades, concerts, tattoos and many other private functions. We teach music to anyone, young or old, on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings in the Torrens Hall. We are pleased to touch so many lives in our area.

“The cost of equipment, uniforms and transport are substantial and we rely on support from organisations and individuals to cover our costs. Our members dedicate enormous amounts of their personal time and income to keep the band moving forward, but operational expenses run well over £1,000 per year.”

Sponsorship opportunities start from just £50. Anyone who would like to support The Sinclair Funders initiative should call Kim Harris on 028 9443 2412 for more information.

Related topics:Supporters