A BRASS band has been given more than £10,000 to improve its base in Dreghorn.
Irvine and Dreghorn Brass Band is celebrating a £10,712 funding boost from SUEZ Communities Trust to upgrade their base at the Dunlop Memorial Hall.
The acclaimed band, a registered charity, is an “access to all” community brass band – with a senior band and a children’s band that take part in numerous concerts and community events throughout the year.
Marymass Saturday 2016..
They previously purchased their community building from North Ayrshire Council via a Community Asset Transfer in October 2020 to create a community music centre.
The building was previously used by North Ayrshire Council as an Office Space, and prior to that as a community hall in its own right.
Irvine Incorporated Trades presenting a previous donation to Irvine and Dreghorn Brass Band members
This funding will help bring it back into community use again and ensure the building is in the best possible condition when it is fully operational as a music centre.
The grant money received has been put to good use by IDB who have installed a new energy efficient heating system and accessible toilets.
They have made other general and safety improvements throughout the building to ensure it is ready to welcome the community and musicians from across the North Ayrshire area.
Marymass 4th port parade, 2017..
James McGoldrick, Vice-Chairman of Irvine and Dreghorn Brass said: “We are delighted to be able to work with the SUEZ Communities Trust on this project and we are incredibly grateful for the support and funding that has been provided.
“The improvement works will make a lasting and positive impact on a building that is not only an iconic memorial property in the heart of the Irvine and Dreghorn communities but also a developing
and growing establishment that aims to provide music entertainment and education to the local people for years to come.”
Marek Gordon, Chairman of SUEZ Communities Trust added: “SUEZ Communities Trust provides funding awards through the Scottish Landfill Communities Fund.
“We were delighted to be able to offer funding to Irvine and Dreghorn Brass.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here