Hatherden Ukejam Group donates to causes close to its heart

Ivor Evans runs 'HUGS', a weekly group offering lessons for people of mixed abilities to learn about playing techniques, styles, and music genres.

The group, set up earlier this year to give players lessons 'regardless of experience and in an affordable way', donates all of its profits to charity.

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Ivor says the group has just made its first donation of £50 to Tangley Parish Village Hall in Andover to help it run the building and the playing field.

The group made a second donation of £30 to the Colebrook Unit at Royal Hampshire County Hospital, a nurse-run day care unit.

Ivor said the ward does 'great work under financial pressure' and is an important cause as they have helped him 'over the past 24 months'.

He added: "I have witnessed what they do and how well they carry out their obligations, they are great under difficult circumstances."

HUGS, which was previously called 'Ukejam', stands for Hatherden Ukejam Group, a name which is more accurate as the group 'extends warmth to all those involved' according to one of its members.

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Ivor explained that the group are 'progressing very quickly and developing great skills', helping the group to 'begin their charitable aims'.

"We encourage new members, regardless of ability and at HUGS you know you will be contributing to further good causes while making friends, learning new skills and making music in a welcoming environment.

"All you need is a ukulele, enthusiasm to learn and a basic philosophy of having fun with others," Ivor concluded.

The group's lessons are held at Hatherden School every Monday evening from 7pm, teaching music in a 'flexible, relaxed way' in which 'folks will have time to learn at their own speed'.

For more information, or to take part, email Ivor at ukejam@outlook.com.