Ilfracombe band OpenMind kicked off a GoFundMe fundraiser called the North Devon Covid-19 Community Fund on Sunday, with their live streamed Saunton gig.
The weather didn’t bode well early-on with showers but the sun made its appearance as if on cue later that afternoon.
The group performed the four tracks from their new EP plus one from their next release with viewers watching on Facebook and other social media plus a local crowd of socially-distanced supporters and crew.
Teamwork makes dream work
The band’s frontman Noel Grummit told the Devon Week: “We’ve brought together an amazing team of people, and I’d like to say a big thank you to all of those involved…Teamwork makes the dream work!
“It was our first gig together, and we had to set up in a field and spread ourselves out to retain social distancing so there were bound to be one or two technical issues, but we’ve learned some lessons to make it even better next time!
“After the success of this one we’re aiming to do another one in about a month’s time with some of our other material added in as well, which you’ll be able to find on our Facebook page closer to the time!”
The band’s bassist Jake said: “It’s been great to get back to doing what I love with my friends again and to be able to share it with people is just phenomenal.”
Economic impact
On the fundraising aspect Ray Goldsmith, the band’s publicist said: “We’ve had great support from the people of North Devon.
“As soon as I announced the fundraiser on The Voice FM I was approached by two very generous donors within hours. They are Mr Gaston Dezart and Northam Town Councillor Laurence Shelley. Thank you to both of you. Their funds will be going to the Children’s Hospice South West and Appledore Primary school respectively. People can specify where the funds go or can leave it us to donate to a worthy cause.
“I will be continuing the fundraising efforts with various events as I can see that when the impact of the economic shutdown hits, this fund and others like it will be needed more and more.
“Please feel free to contact me or the band with fundraising suggestions or potential beneficiaries.”
Follow the band’s musical and fundraising journey here: https://www.facebook.com/OpenMind.UKBand/
Donate to the fund here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/5thv2-community-fund
All updates will appear on Raymond’s Facebook page where you can also contact the fund: https://www.facebook.com/Goldsmithpr
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