Winston fundraising gig rocks up £2,450 for air ambulance

A THANK-you concert organised by dale musician to raise money for the air ambulance service which came to his aid after a horror accident raised more than £2,000.
Kev Pattison was flown to the James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough, after coming off his motorbike while off-roading on a ride from Yarm to Whitby in January 2014.
He spent three weeks in hospital having broken three vertebrae, four ribs and a cracked sternum, and a further four months in a neck and body brace.
Mr Pattison, from Winston, swapped motorbikes for music as he continues to recover, making custom guitars using recycled materials as well as playing in a duo called Box of Frogs, with box drummer Richard Levett.
Last month, Mr Pattison organised a fundraising gig in aid of the Great North Air Ambulance Service at Winston Village Hall.
Box of Frogs were joined by community choir Scherzo and singer-songwriter Toni Sidgwick at the sold-out event.
Money raised from the show, along with a further £275 from the sale of specially recorded Box of Frogs CDs meant Mr Pattison was able to hand over a cheque for £2,450 to air ambulance fundraisers Harriet Langston and Laura Simpson.
Ms Langston said the service was “massively grateful” to fundraisers such as Mr Pattison.
“We must raise £4.6million to keep flying and receive no government or Lottery funding.
“No gift is too small and we are greatful for anything we get. It all helps.”
Ms Langston said fundraising was an “ongoing struggle” but the air ambulance service enjoyed excellent support.
“With being a charity funded by the public for the public, we find people are very generous and we have a loyal following.”
Mr Pattison said the gig had been a great night, although the organisation of it had involved a lot of hard work from friends and family.
The eight track Box of Frogs fundraising CD was recorded at Bishop FM and copies are available for £5.
For details, contact Mr Pattison via www.facebook.com/ BoxofFrogsTeesdale