Duncan Lees, an 86-year-old drummer with 65 years of experience, is set to embark on another fundraising “drumathon” this October, inspired by Captain Sir Tom Moore’s pandemic efforts that raised millions for the NHS. Duncan first took on a drumathon challenge in 2021, and this year, he’s drumming again to support Age UK.
On Saturday, October 12, Duncan will perform alongside several other acts, including Tenor Ladies, The Dodgers, and the Bury Ukulele Band. The event will take place at The Jubilee Centre on Mosley Avenue in Bury, where Duncan plans to drum to a track for every year of his life—86 songs in total—over five consecutive hours. His goal is to raise funds to help renovate The Jubilee Centre, which hosts activities such as line dancing and yoga for older adults.
“The drumathon will be a challenge, but I know the support from everyone, including the mayor and mayoress, will be amazing,” Duncan said. The event is set to kick off at 11 a.m. with the mayor and mayoress joining to officially start the drumathon.
Duncan first picked up drumming during his national service in Hong Kong, where he played in a skiffle band as part of the Green Howards Regiment. In the 1960s, he continued his musical journey, performing with bands such as The Talisman and Clockwork Orange in the North East.
In addition to his personal drumming projects, Duncan previously participated in BBC Children in Need’s drumathon, alongside North West Tonight’s former weather presenter, Owain Wyn Evans.
Though he has become known for his drumathon efforts, Duncan hinted that this could be his last for a while. “If I reach the grand old age of 90, I may consider doing another one!” he joked.
Ania Stark-Ketcher, CEO of Age UK Bury, praised Duncan’s contributions, stating: “Duncan is a valued member of the community and an incredible man for his age. He supports the centre daily and helps find talented music artists to perform at the Jubilee Centre. Every penny raised stays in Bury and supports people aged 50 and over.”
She added, “We are currently raising funds to renovate the Jubilee Centre so we can improve the activities we provide, from line dancing and yoga to afternoon tea dances and much more.”
Through his dedication to drumming and fundraising, Duncan Lees continues to make a meaningful impact on his community while inspiring others with his passion and energy.
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