Following the recent news that uniform maker Image Is Everything Ltd had gone into liquidation, taking with it a number of deposits from bands that had placed orders with the company, Centre Stage Uniforms has stepped to help.
Had to help
MD, Martin Gernon told 4BR: "When we heard of the insolvency proceedings we had to help the bands involved.
Image Is Everything Ltd is the latest of a number of companies linked to publicly recorded directors which has become insolvent — and with so many financial pressures in bands nowadays, to lose a substantial amount of money in this way is heartbreaking."
Youth help
One band that was affected was Reeth Brass Band in Yorkshire. They placed their order for five jackets for their talented young players in November, and despite repeated promises, they never arrived.
Band Chairman, Irwin Blenkiron told 4BR: "We placed our order in good faith. These jackets were needed for five of our youngest members for a special Christmas concert, but were told on 30th November that the company was no longer trading. You can imagine our disappointment.
At a time when we want to encourage youth into bands, this was a bitter blow."
True to word
Irwin added: "We contacted Martin and his team at Centre Stage, and were delighted when they confirmed they could turn our order around in time for our concert. Bearing in mind our recent experience we were a little sceptical, but he was true to his word.
I received a call from Martin on the 16th December — six days before the event, to confirm our jackets had been made, and he personally delivered them the same night (above).
I cannot thank Centre Stage enough, and knowing our youngsters were properly kitted out has restored my faith and put a huge smile on my face.
Our thanks also go to the funders of the jackets; Len Scrafton of Richmond Free Masons, Reeth Parish and Richmondshire District Councils."
I cannot thank Centre Stage enough, and knowing our youngsters were properly kitted out has restored my faith and put a huge smile on my faceReeth Brass Band Chairman, Irwin Blenkiron
Urge bands
Martin Gernon added: "I would urge bands to undertake a thorough check of who they are entering into agreement with before they part with any deposit.
Centre Stage has a worldwide reputation for excellence and customer relations and we welcome any enquiries from bands wishing to find out more about us."
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