Soul music legends are preparing a foot-stomping night in Moray to boost a community’s efforts to restore access to a beach.
Geno Washington and the Ram Jam Band developed a reputation as being one of the most exciting live bands in the UK during the 1960s after the US airman teamed up with London musicians.
Now the performers are setting course for Lossiemouth in October to perform a gig to support efforts to build a replacement crossing to the town’s East Beach.
Organiser Andy Macdonald’s dad lives just yards away from the current bridge on Church Street and, after learning of its closure, felt compelled to try and help.
He said: “I moved away after completing my second year at Lossiemouth High School when my parents went their separate ways.
“I moved to Ireland with my mum and stayed there, but I would frequently visit my dad and take his dog Daisy for a walk across the bridge.
“It was also the beach where my dad would train me for the Highland games. There isn’t any other beach like it and it’s such a shame that no one can access it.”
Mr Macdonald already has experience of organising events at Lossiemouth Town Hall after attracting Toploader to the venue earlier this year.
Cash raised from a fundraising raffle and merchandise stall at the forthcoming gig will be put towards efforts to build a replacement crossing, which will cost at least £500,000.
Meanwhile, an invitation has also been extended to local talent to take to the stage alongside Geno Washington and the Ram Jam Band on the night.
Mr Macdonald added: “Support slots for local bands on high scale events is the perfect opportunity for talent to get their music out there and build their fan base, and one thing that honestly took me by surprise was how much musical talent there is in Moray.
“My aim is to bring some of the big names in the music industry here, which will eventually lead to a larger scale outdoor music event.”
The Moray’s Got Soul event will be held at Lossiemouth Town Hall on Saturday, October 19. Doors open at 7pm. Admission £25. Tickets are available online at www.facebook.com/ybdmusic or at Miele’s ice cream shop.
Local performers interested in playing should e-mail Mr Macdonald at andyybd@me.com