Three charities in the running for funding from Uppermill store

Dobcross Youth Band

Three local causes are all in the running for funding from the Co-op store in Uppermill.

Bright Futures School for children with autism, Dobcross Youth Band, and Dobcross Band Club, could all scoop the money in November.

The winner will be voted for by Co-op members who use their member card when shopping - causes can be selected online.

Jude Gidney, the New Member Pioneer for the Uppermill Co-op, met with the three causes over the last week to talk about what they are planning to do with the funding and how it will benefit their communities. 

Bright Futures School is excitedly watching its new school being built in Greenfield and are looking towards equipping it once they can move in, imminently, and call it 'home'. 

Christina Stocks, spokesperson for Bright Futures School, said: "We would like to create a state-of-the-art sensory room at our new-build school in Greenfield, in Saddleworth, which will double up as an interactive immersive space for our pupils with autism.

"We would like to equip our brand-new school with the very latest teaching technology, including interactive TV screens and modern furniture to help aid the development of our pupils, aged five to 16."

Dobcross Youth Band would use their funding to make sure that they look smart when marching in all weathers playing.

They would like to buy each band player a hooded weatherproof smart coat with logo to replace their plastic raincoats that struggle in our northern downpours.

And the Band Club itself will use their money to contribute towards a full refurbishment of its kitchen, which is used by many groups including Dobcross Elderberries and for the regular monthly coffee mornings which raise money for charity.  

Terry Lawless, Chair of the Band Club said: "We are really pleased that Uppermill Co-op has chosen refurbishing our community kitchen as one of its community causes. 

"The kitchen is well used to support community events but is decades old and the club, which is run by volunteers, is the only community space in Dobcross."

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