Bury St Edmunds’ ukulele concert will raise money for a safer church building

A Suffolk church will open its doors to some of the county’s stars of mini guitars next Saturday.

Bury St Edmunds’ United Reform Church on Whiting Street plans to use the money raised to make its 400-year-old building safer and more accessible.

The Wesley Ukulele Group, based in Elmswell, will perform 60s, 70s and 80s music.

Carol Pybus, one of the first members when the group started two years ago, said: “We are delighted to put this concert on for them.

“All our events are put on to raise money for charities and good causes.”

Mrs Pybus explained that when the group started in 2021, the vast majority of members couldn’t play a chord.

However, having been taught by their music director – whose slogan is ‘retire, get a ukulele and have fun’ – the group has supported many charities and is gearing up for a ukulele festival in July.

Sue MacDonald, fundraising coordinator for the United Reform Church, said: “We’re raising money from events like this one to look after the fabric of our building – including by making the entrance hall more easily accessible.”

The £10 concert on Saturday, May 13, will be complemented by a raffle and refreshments.

Future concerts to be hosted by the United Reform Church include one by Elm Tree Music on June 11, by The Thetford Singers on July 15 and by flute and harp duo Angels Delight on September 30.

Cash will be needed for all events as the church can’t accept cards.

You can find out more about the church on its website.