Driving the spirit buses home

Driven by the Spirit, organised by Rothbury resident Jack Wilkinson to raise funds for Spirit Buses, took place at the Queen’s Head Hotel in Rothbury last weekend

The company, launched by Rothbury resident Steve Hurst 18 months ago, provides a much-needed bus service between Rothbury and Coquetdale, and beyond.

The evening was opened by The Travellers folk group and they were followed by special guest Rod Clements, from Lindisfarne, with a solo performance.

The second half began with Anne Brown on accordion and Jack Wilkinson on guitar.

And the final act of the night was a yesteryear performance of ‘60s music performed by Terry Tait on guitar and vocals strongly supported by Richard Warner, Rod Clements and Jack Wilkinson.

A raffle and auction were also held during the interval and the audience were up and dancing by the end of the night.

Jack said: “Many thanks to the performers, the helpers, the prize donators and of course a wonderful audience.”

Jack also performed his song, Driven by the Spirit on the night, which was written for the event.

A total of £1,175 was raised from the evening.

Steve Hurst said: “I would just like to thank everyone in the community and beyond for their overwhelming support and contribution to what was an incredibly enjoyable evening of local entertainment.

“Special thanks to Jack Wilkinson who did an absolutely tremendous job in organising such a heart-warming event that shows community spirit is still very much alive and strong in the Coquet Valley.

“I also need to thank the performers; Anne Brown for a lovely accordion set with Jack and special guests

“Rod Clements for a solo set and Terry Tait, from The Rebels, for agreeing to come along and support the event and for combining to perform as quite a special ‘super-group’ with Jack and ‘The Travellers’.

“And not least to Bill and Terry, of The Queens Head, for hosting the event and Jennifer for organising the raffle and the auction, and finally to all the local businesses, residents and visitors for their very generous donations.

“The evening raised above and beyond anything that was expected.

“It just goes to show how much the Spirit Bus and the services provided mean to all these people since they were introduced just 18 months ago. The support of the community and the putting on of events such as these are vital to assist with our running costs and ensure that we are able to continue.”

Rod Clements added: “It was a great community show of support for an inspired local initiative that deserves to stay.”