Riverside Youth players discover it could be them following National Lottery award

Celebrations are in order for members of Inverclyde-based Riverside Youth Band after it received a National Lottery award.

The funding boost of £8200 comes from The National Lottery Community Fund and has been made possible by National Lottery players.

The money will be used by the Port Glasgow youth music organisation to invest in more instruments as it continues to welcome young people from across Inverclyde and beyond to its ranks.

Duncan Galbraith, RYB chairman, said: "This funding award from the National Lottery is, quite literally, music to our ears.

"Over the past decade, Riverside Youth Band has steadily grown as it continues to welcome more and more young people to make music in a safe, nurturing environment, and this funding award enables us to widen our provision to ensure we can continue to provide opportunities through music."

News of the funding award comes as Riverside Youth Band recently took to the stage in Port Glasgow Community Campus for its 11th annual summer concert. An audience of more than 200 people attended the school auditorium to see the organisation's youth and training bands in action under musical director Mark Good, as well as the organisation's group for youngsters taking the first steps in their musical journeys, the Riverside Rookies, led by Laura Good.

Kate Still, The National Lottery Community Fund, Scotland chair, said: “National Lottery funding can make amazing things happen in local communities across the country. 

"This project delivered by Riverside Youth Band is a great example of community activity in action, showing just what can be achieved when people come together for a common cause or to help others. National Lottery players can be proud to know that the money they raise is helping to support this vital work which is making a real difference to so many.”

The organisation now turns its attention to its awards night and ceilidh on 16 June, as it brings down the curtain on a busy year by recognising members' achievements.

RYB rehearses in Port Glasgow New Parish Church on Friday afternoons, with more young brass and percussion players welcome to get involved. Contact Duncan at info@riversideyouthband.co.uk or call 07974 106 888 for more information.