The Inverclyde-based Riverside Youth Band has been celebrating the news that it has been awarded £8,200 by the National Lottery Community Fund.

The money will be used by the Port Glasgow organisation to invest in more instruments, as it continues to welcome young people from across Inverclyde and surrounding areas.

Music to our ears

Speaking about the award, Band Chairperson, Duncan Galbraith said: "This funding is quite literally music to our ears.

Over the past decade, Riverside Youth Band has steadily grown as it continues to welcome young people to make music in a safe, nurturing environment. This funding award enables us to continue to widen our provision to ensure we can continue to provide opportunities through music."

Concert boost

The news came as Riverside Youth Band took to the stage at the Port Glasgow Community Campus for its eleventh annual summer concert.

An audience piled into the school auditorium to see the organisation's Youth and Training bands in action under MD, Mark Good, as well as the organisation's group for youngsters taking the first steps in their musical journeys, the Riverside Rookies, led by Laura Good.

This project delivered by Riverside Youth Band is a great example of community activity in action, showing just what can be achieved when people come together for a common cause or to help othersNational Lottery Community Fund

Amazing things

Kate Still, Scotland Chairperson of the National Lottery Community Fund added: "National Lottery funding can make amazing things happen in local communities across the country.

This project delivered by Riverside Youth Band is a great example of community activity in action, showing just what can be achieved when people come together for a common cause or to help others.

National Lottery players can be proud to know that the money they raise is helping to support this vital work which is making a real difference to so many."

The organisation now turns its attention to its awards night and ceilidh on June 16, as it brings down the curtain on a busy year by recognising members' achievements.