A Belfast flute band is to walk from Larne to Belfast Harbour in an effort to raise funds and donations for its Christmas toy appeal.
The East Belfast Protestant Boys Flute Band has launched a Christmas toy appeal in an effort to give back to the local community that has supported it throughout the years.
The band, which is celebrating its 55th anniversary this year, said that it will be working with local community groups within the area to ensure that those families in need of additional support this Christmas can be identified and supported.
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In an effort to raise donations and funds for the appeal, the band will be taking on a 20 mile sponsored walk on Saturday, December 3, from Larne Harbour to the Harland and Wolff Shipyard.
Speaking to Belfast Live, band captain Aaron McConnell said: "Our band would not be here if it wasn't for the help and support that we receive from the people of East Belfast and we wanted to do something this year to give back to them and help those who need it most.
"We have set up our Christmas toy appeal this year in order to make sure that no child goes without this festive season while also easing the pressures that families will be facing with the cost of living crisis.
"We will be working alongside local community groups and organisations, local women's groups, the Diamond Project and the East Belfast ACT Initiative in order to make sure that we are able to identify those families who need a bit of extra help this Christmas and provide them with what they need.
"In order to help encourage donations to the appeal, the band will be taking part in a sponsored walk from Larne to Belfast on December 3, where we hope to raise as much as possible to purchase toys for children in the area.
"A GoFundme page has been set up to support the appeal, which will be used by the various community groups to purchase the gifts, and we also have three drop-off points for anyone wanting to leave donations.
"This appeal will be for every child in need throughout East Belfast and we would like to thank everyone who contributes to it."
The three drop off points for presents for the appeal are:
- The Union Jack Shop - 354 Newtownards Road, Belfast
Claire’s Hot Food and Sandwich Bar - 7-9 Severn Street, Belfast
Diamond Health Club - 31 Kingswood Street, Belfast
If you would like to contribute to the band's appeal, please follow this link.
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