A volunteer at Annie Mawson’s Sunbeams Music Trust celebrated his 70th birthday by asking for donations to the charity and raised over £1,400.
Simon Woodrow has been a volunteer at the trust, near Penrith, for three years and decided that he wanted to mark his milestone birthday and retirement by giving something back to the charity.
Donations from friends and family raised £1,419 at a party he held earlier this month.
Simon said: “My first experience of the work that goes on was when I saw a Music for Life therapy session take place with a group of local disabled people by the resident musician Will Harris.
“The atmosphere was electric, and no matter how disabled they were all involved and visibly enjoying every moment. I found out that Music Centre supports all
ages and disabilities as well as providing music therapy to outreach groups who cannot make it to Sunbeams.
“Each week they also deliver Music for Dignity sessions for groups of dementia sufferers to a project named Songs and Scones. There is live music and singing and of course tea and scones!
“It is quite amazing to see people with acute memory problems singing every word of songs from the 60s and 70s. For some of the attendees this is the only thing they do outside of their homes, and they really look forward to it.
“My support role involves anything from making the tea to painting sheds and putting up gazebos.”
Annie Mawson MBE MRSM and founder said: “We are deeply touched by Simon’s decision to use his birthday celebration and retirement as an opportunity to raise funds for Sunbeams.
“This dedication, kindness and support, makes a huge difference and we truly appreciate the time and energy he’s invested. We simply couldn’t achieve what we do without help such as Simon’s and that of our other wonderful volunteers who support Sunbeams with various tasks including help with refreshments at our music therapy projects and at events.”
Sunbeams strives to make a difference to disabled and disadvantaged children and adults though the creative freedom of music.
For 33 years Sunbeams has helped people thrive, give them hope and make a difference to the lives of the children and adults, many with complex needs.
If anyone is interested in volunteering at Sunbeams, contact Jules on 01768 892909 or email jules@sunbeamsmusic.org
