Bridport held two events as part of this year’s “We Shall Overcome”. A midweek talk on the recent history of protest music was followed by a day of music at The Ropemakers pub on Saturday 8th October – all of which raised hundreds of pounds for the local Cupboard
Love Food Bank as well has collected much needed supplies.
The events were part of a national series of events called “We Shall Overcome” which involved over 260 separate gigs and activities across the country and beyond. Music ran in the Ropemakers from 3 pm and featured many local performers happy to give up their time to support people in need. The bands were; Garry “Slide Man” Smith, John D Revelator with Ashely Reed, Those Voices Poor, Natures Cage, Abi Rich, The Seed Bombers, Behind Closed Doors, Ruthy Ni Conallian and Jamie MacDonald. This night was rounded off by festival and Ropemakers favourites Black Water County.
Earlier in the week an audience in the WI Hall were treated to a fascinating talk from Journalist, musician and activist Neil Duncan-Jordan. Revolution Per Minute explored protest music since the 1930’s and touched on folk, blues, jazz and hip-hop in tracing the development of the genre.
The events, including a generous donation from John and Geraldine at The Ropemakers raised a massive total of £769.39 for the food bank, along with well over £100 worth of food donations.
Keith Hatch, who organized the events, said; “It was a brilliant couple of days and I really can’t get over how generous people were with their donations. It is very sad that in the 21st century and one of the richest countries in the world, people need to rely on Food Banks to survive. However these events were about local people supporting each other, and Bridport really shone through.”
“The musicians, speaker, pub staff, volunteers and local businesses who supplied raffle prizes were brilliant – but most important it was the public who came to the event and gave so generously.”
Canon Andrew Evans from St Marys Church organises Cupboard Love Food Bank and said; “The “We shall overcome” fundraising events in Bridport were amazing. At The Ropemakers donations of food and money rolled in from the start and did not stop. Everybody gave what they could from and I am honestly amazed at the amount raised. “
“All the money will be spent on Christmas hampers which will just make it a wonderful time for some people who really need a hand up.”
“Bridport is a really dynamic town where people are making it very clear that they will not tolerate food poverty; they will not sit back and watch the chaos caused in people’s lives by cuts in benefits, zero hours contracts and the loss of an income caused by ill health.”
“Lives unravel really quickly. And because people support Cupboard Love food bank with donations of money and food we can walk alongside individuals and families who are having an awful time.”
