Forum topic: Community in Harmony: Bowes Park Folk Club Raises Vital Funds for Food Bank

The sounds of acoustic guitars, banjos, mandolins, and powerful vocal harmonies filled the spring air on Saturday 25 April as the Bowes Park community gathered for a special fundraising festival. Hosted by the  Bowes Park Folk Club , a full day of exceptional music was held at the  Bounds Green Bowls and Tennis Club , drawing a passionate crowd united to support the vital work of the  Bounds Green Food Bank . The event seamlessly blended grassroots music with local activism. It was organised entirely by volunteers, to support the neighbourhood food bank, which has become an essential lifeline for local families. Although entry to the event was free, £2,658 was raised through the immense generosity of attendees, direct donations, and a heavily supported raffle.

A Day of Stellar Performances 

The afternoon kicked off with sets from folk club regulars Ian Coles, Naresh, and Christian T Walsh. The performances also showcased graduates of the club’s ‘ features’ project , which provides platform opportunities for young musicians and budding singer-songwriters. A heartfelt early set of original tracks and familiar covers from Rowan Gibbons perfectly set the tone for the day. 

Local favourites and guest musicians donated their time and talents, offering a diverse repertoire that kept the audience captivated. From traditional British and Irish folk ballads to contemporary Americana and East European polyphony, the musical variety was outstanding. Hyphae delivered a deeply moving performance, while Yiddiomatik, a duo drawing on European Klezmer traditions, sang beautifully in five languages. Local heroes Miss Haversham’s Digital Clock then raised the volume with an enthusiastic, lively set.

Show-Stopping Headliners 

Transitioning into the evening, trio Somebody Else's Troubles delivered a brilliant programme of folk, country, and rock ’n’ roll. They paved the way for Amy Belle, whose impressive credits include busking on the streets of Glasgow and duetting with Rod Stewart at the Royal Albert Hall. The Grand Old Echo, firm favourites at Bowes Park, treated the crowd to a set of gritty, urban-edged folk music - complete with live juggling! The glorious day was brought to a close by the moving harmonies of San Halen, who performed Welsh, English, and Spanish folk songs.

Supporting a Vital Lifeline 

Representatives from the Bounds Green Food Bank were present throughout the day to speak about the increasing challenges of food insecurity. Thanks to local independent businesses donating raffle prizes, every penny raised will go directly toward supplying essential groceries and sanitary products to neighbours in need. 

• To donate or volunteer: Visit  www.boundsgreenfoodbank.org  

• For future gigs: Check the  Bowes Park Folk Club website  and social media pages.