£3,500 is the target as Oldham gears up to 'Rock the Foodbank'

Mick Harwood and two music fanatic mates are hoping to raise £3,500 for the Oldham Foodbank in September when they stage what promises to be an epic 'Oldham Rocks the Foodbank' live showcase gig.

Royton-based Mick, an experienced gig and event promoter in Oldham, has teamed up with Paul Chadwick and Rick Parker to organise the all-day show which, all being well, will take place at the Whittle's Tokyo venue on Roscoe Street on Saturday, September 19.

Mick said: "I've been volunteering on a regular basis at Oldham Foodbank since being furloughed eight weeks ago.

"Lockdown allowing, our event will feature a predominantly local line up, and is a celebration of local music.

"There is an element of uncertainty around the date, and the capacity, due to the uncertain circumstances, and it is also difficult for some bands and singers to fully commit.

"Therefore, the three of us have to think a little bit out of the box.

"What I will say, however, is that one way or another, on that date or another date later on, we will definitely be holding the 'Oldham Rocks the Foodbank' gig.

"Although we do have six bands already lined up, we are looking to create a pool of local talent that would be interested in featuring if the circumstances fall right for them.

"Then we can draw up a final line up from that pool.

"We are looking to raise £3,500, mostly from door takings, but also via JustGiving donations via the Oldham Rocks the Foodbank page on Facebook.

"The Facebook page is now set up as a celebration of Oldham music, past and present.

"We would also like to encourage local bands and singers to send in their material, via Facebook, so that we can share it on the page."

Mick used to promote live music nights in Jacksons Pit, called Oldham Rocks.

At around the same time, he organised the Oldham Vintage Markets events on Yorkshire Street when he owned a business called Scoots, Suits and Boots.

Mick is a former recipient of the Freeman Meacher Ambassador Award.

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