A UKULELE group has raised vital funds for an Andover charity thanks to kind donations at its debut concert.

Uke@Heart made their debut public performance as the opening act at the Weyhill Electronic Organ Society (WEOS) concert on Thursday, February 15. 

Uke@Heart were thrilled by the audiences’ response which raised nearly £100 in donations, and members added to this from their funds to donate a total of £150 to Andover Mind.

A mix of several types of songs set for the evening included The Wellerman, Whiskey in the Jar and Country Roads. The ensemble, primarily of ukuleles, also featured bass guitar, banjolele, harmonica and Cajon drum, giving the group its unique sound.

Group member Elizabeth, who joined the group last year, said: “I joined after only having my instrument for a few months. The group has been incredibly welcoming, and I have learnt so much more from being around other players. And, we always have a laugh.”

Andover Advertiser: Uke@Heart presenting the donations to Andover MindDavid Humphreys, one of the founder members of the group, said: “This was our first performance as Uke@Heart, and we were pleasantly surprised at the warm reception we received. It has encouraged us to offer more performances with the aim to continue raising money for local charities.”

Lisa Langman, of Andover Mind, said: “We would like to thank Uke@Heart for the kind donation they raised at their recent concert. The money received will help us to run our Andover wellbeing centre which provides a relaxed and friendly base, where we offer help to all who need it by delivering a range of services to support people with mental health problems.

"Find out more about our services by visiting andovermind.org.uk/services.”

Uke@Heart is welcoming experienced and novice players to the group, which meets alternate Mondays at Bulbery Sports Field and Pavilion, located at Bulbery, Abbotts Ann, SP11 7BN.

Please contact Anne on 07901 558353 or David on 07943 656926 for more information. Alternatively email ukeatheart32@gmail.com.