Sandbach teacher to raise over £1000 for late man's favourite charities
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.
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."
"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.
"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."
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.
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.
"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].
"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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