A Winterley resident has rallied the Sandbach community to raise an incredible amount of money for charity, in memory of a late local man.

Ian Raisbeck, music teacher at Sandbach School, will be taking on his first ever marathon next month.

He is running for Lions Youth Brass and Sandbach Park Bowling Club, the favourite passions of his late friend Nigel Birch.

Mr Birch, who passed away from cancer at aged 57 in January, was director of Sandbach's Lions Youth Brass band for over 30 years.

Nigel Birch passed away at the start of the year. (Image - The Birch Family)

Mr Raisbeck, who has replaced Mr Birch as the band's director, had performed music together since 1997.

"I met Nigel in the late 1990s, he taught me to play the cornet", said Ian.

"I played in the band when he directed it, went off to university and stayed in touch with him throughout the years and came back for various projects.

"When he was first diagnosed with cancer last year, he asked if I would take on the band for him. I was pleased to do so, as he did so much for me."

Ian Raisbeck, who has been running for five years, knew Mr Birch for over 25 years.

"I was already entered for the marathon, but I wasn't going to do it for any charity until Nigel passed. I spoke to his family about it and they were delighted."

Ian will take on the 26.2-mile run on April 16.

Incredibly, he has already fundraised three times more than his £400 goal, with the current total raised being £1200.

"Thank you to everyone who has shown their support so far", added Ian.

The majority of the funds will go to Lions Youth Band (pictured), but some will go to Sandbach Pack Bowling Club of Sandbach Park, The Commons, Sandbach CW11 1FJ. (Image - Facebook)

"It feels strange to have already raised so much. I didn't know what to expect as there is a cost of living crisis going on.

"There was already a similar collection at Nigel's funeral, so lots of his friends and associates would have donated already, so I set my targets low as £400 was the default that JustGiving suggested.

"It is motivating. There is definitely a purpose every time I put my trainers on now. It will be the first time I have run anything that far.

"It doesn't matter how small or big any donation is, but I know it helps to keep the memory of Nigel in everybody's heads and will do good for his favourite hobbies."

70 people have donated thus far. (Image - Ian Raisbeck)

Meeting every Tuesday at Sandbach School to rehearse, Lions Youth Brass Band was founded in 1989.

Nigel Birch was their longest-serving director, with now the baton being passed onto Ian.

A video tribute to Nigel can be viewed at the top of this article, featuring many of the young musicians he helped.

Most of the funds raised will pay for new instruments, their repair and maintenance.

Lions Youth Brass Band is ran by parent volunteers like Ian, pictured here in his running gear. Ian plays the cornet, trumpet and piano. (Image - Ian Raisbeck)

This secures the future of the band. Cash will also go towards uniforms and rent of concert spaces.

"Most of the band's funding relies on donations, so this well help keep the band going for over a year," revealed Ian.

"As well as Nigel's family, my family have also been very supportive. I actually met my wife at Lions Youth Brass Band when we were teenagers, when Nigel was director.

"Nigel was a special man to many people, and I'll be doing my best to do him proud.

Lions Youth Band at Odd Rode Allsaints Church. (Image - Ian Bloor)

"He was kind, a motivator and instilled excellent values in young people.

"Nigel also introduced me to playing trumpet, which I went on to study at university, and why I ended up being a music teacher and then directing the band.

"In the most unfortunate of circumstances, it has filled me with pride really to carry on Nigel's legacy.

"I was much rather he was still here today, but if I can do anything for him it will be to continue running the band [which these funds will help achieve].

Ian has worked for as a secondary school music teahcer for 11 years. (Image - Ian Raisbeck)

"I know I have it within me to run the distance, and help to honour him by raising money as well."

Sandbach: You can donate to the crowdfunder by clicking HERE.

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