Gig boosts kids’ initiative

Feb 17 2009 by Andrew Welsh, Perthshire Advertiser Tuesday

A GRATEFUL Perth band yesterday thanked music fans for backing a major fund-raising campaign.

Classic rock aficionados the Windows roped Scots legends Nazareth into a benefit gig at Perth Concert Hall last August to give their work on behalf of the Rockin’ for Kids initiative.

Windows frontman Athole Fleming told Music Scene the quartet had provided cash boosts to a host of good causes after banking thousands of pounds at the concert.

He described the support from Big County punters as “brilliant”.

“We were able to make a number of large and small donations to local childrens’ groups and charities throughout the whole of Perthshire and Tayside,” said Athole yesterday.

“During last December and January, the value of donations made were over £10,000.

“Many people helped and supported us through sponsorship, technical support, rehearsal space, bought tickets for events, donated things for raffles. For that we thank everyone.”

As revealed in Music Scene in December, The Windows donated 100 three-quarter sized guitars to 27 local youth organisations.

“We were delighted to receive so many cards of thanks from the children in the weeks that passed,” said Athole. “Music, sound and fun means so much to so many, and this event was a great success.”

The Windows have also given away £7,000 from the concert’s proceeds to the Cash For Kids charity, taking their total donations to the cause to over £21,300.

But Athole insisted the campaign also provides grassroots aid.

“RFK allows us to make many small donations that give us equal amount of pleasure and fun,” said the rocker.

“These have included small percussion toys for playgroups, a keyboard, whistles and more guitars.”

Meanwhile, away from fund-raising, The Windows hope their drummer Iain McLagan will shortly be fit enough to return to action.

The band were forced to draft in Fair City sticksman Kevin Smith for their gig at the Old Ship Inn last Friday after McLagan suffered cracked ribs in a fall.

“We hope to hear some better news from Iain in the next week, but the most important thing is that he gets fully fit and well again before joining us live,” said Athole.

“However, we were delighted Kevin agreed to step in at the last moment and help out.”