We’re delighted to announce the launch of the Okehampton Musical Warm Bank and are throwing open our doors to offer a warm space to local people this winter.
The warm bank is open several afternoons a week from 2.30pm to 6pm at Wren Music’s premises at Ebenezer Hall in North Street. The warm bank is supported by the National Grid Electricity Distribution Community Matters Fund and offers a space for people to stay warm, have a hot drink, and even take part in musical and creative activities if they wish.
The idea behind the warm banks is to help people, particularly young families, to keep their fuel costs down through the darkest, coldest months of the winter.
The Okehampton Musical Warm Bank is open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday afternoons and some Sundays until the end of March.
We have launched the warm bank after spotting a need in the town. Creative Director at Wren Music, Marilyn Tucker, said: “People can drop in, have a chat, have a cuppa, and recharge their phones. If they like, they can have a go at playing an instrument when our musicians are here, and join in with activities that are happening, such as making lanterns for the Okehampton Lanterns event. It’s all very relaxed, comfortable, and welcoming.
“The grant from the Community Matters Fund will transform what we can offer to families in Okehampton,” added Marilyn. “Living in a rural area – especially near Dartmoor – means members of our community often rely on tourism and have lower wages in winter, coupled with fewer places and spaces available to spend time.
“By providing a free musical warm bank we are hoping to make this winter easier and more fun for local families. It’s giving folks the chance to try new things and meet new people, as well as save on heating bills.
“A massive ‘thank you’ is due to National Grid Electricity Distribution for their support for our work this winter.”
This is the latest of our community projects – others include working with schools and care homes and running Singing for Wellness choirs for people with respiratory conditions. We also coordinate the Okehampton Lanterns Procession, which takes place in 2024 on Saturday 24 February.
For more information about the Okehampton Musical Warm Bank, contact Marilyn at [email protected] or on 01837 53754.
