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Right notes hit as daily smashes musical appeal target

More than 50 musical instruments have been donated to a regional daily’s appeal to help produce its patch’s next generation of players.

The Gazette, Blackpool, has beaten its target of 50 instruments being handed over from readers as part of its Give Us A Tune campaign.

The instruments have been given to local charity the Blackpool Music Academy, which will give youngsters the chance to hire and try instruments before buying.

Among those to donate to the appeal is Pet Shop Boys pop star Chris Lowe, who was born and educated in Blackpool.

The Gazette's appeal was launched in April

The Gazette’s appeal was launched in April

Radio One DJ Danny Howard, tenor Alfie Boe, singer Rae Morris and electro-pop artist Little Boots are among the other famous names to give their backing to the cause.

The campaign now aims to raise £20,000 to help subsidise music lessons on The Gazette’s patch.

Senior reporter Gareth Vickers, who is leading the campaign, said: “The Gazette’s Give Us A Tune campaign launched in April and in that time has captured the imagination of readers and musicians alike.

“We’ve had wonderful support from local artists including Radio One DJ Danny Howard, tenor Alfie Boe, singer Rae Morris and electro-pop artists including Little Boots and the Pet Shop Boys

“Our aim was for readers to donate 50 instruments to Blackpool Music Academy and I am glad to say we reached this target earlier this month.

“Blackpool has a rich musical history that should be celebrated and directed towards a new generation.

“The stars of tomorrow are certainly out there. As any parent will tell you music tuition can cost a pretty penny, let alone the musical instruments themselves.

“These unused guitars, keyboards, drums and violins now have a new lease of life and mean a new generation of players get the chance to fulfil their ambitions.”