£1,000 grant to help orchestra after theft
A popular orchestra will be able to replace vital equipment stolen from the back of a van after being awarded £1,000.
Sandwell Council has stepped in to support the People's Orchestra, which is based in West Bromwich, and made up of a diverse mix of musicians aged between 18 and 75.
A public address system, cables, wires and IT equipment were snatched from the back of the van belonging the group in a second theft suffered by the group.
Managing director Sarah Marshall estimated that the stolen equipment could cost as much as £2,000 to replace after the 'truly heartbreaking' thefts.
She added: "We are absolutely delighted to hear of the council’s kind offer because we have to work so hard to raise the money to buy this equipment to help people to play music and the unemployed members to get back into work."
Councillor Richard Marshall, cabinet member for leisure, said: “The People’s Orchestra is a well-respected organisation who have really been badly affected by two thefts of their equipment.
"They provide excellent entertainment for music lovers and do some excellent work in the community and deserve some assistance at this difficult time."
The orchestra also works to help unemployed people back into work by helping to boost their confidence and gain new skills.
