A charity concert organised by two Warminster teenagers has raised more than £3,000 for Dementia UK.
The event, Forget Me Not – A Charity Concert for Dementia, was organised by 17-year-olds Joe Truckle and Jamie Scorgie and took place at the Memorial Theatre in Frome in August. It brought together friends, family and local performers for an emotional evening of music and memories.
Joe described the night as ‘incredible’ after weeks of nerves about ticket sales. “In the final few days, it really picked up – seeing and hearing everyone in the audience on the night was something amazing. Jamie and I are so grateful for all the support,” he said.
The pair originally set a target of £2,000 but were overwhelmed to have raised £3,066 through ticket sales, raffles and donations. “Our target was £2,000 – and we only thought we would get that if we were really lucky – so to go over by a whole £1,000 is incredible,” added Joe.
One of the most memorable moments of the evening came when Joe performed alongside a video of his late grandfather. “Singing with him again was really emotional,” he said. “We finished with My Way, which was one of his favourites – that meant so much.”
The evening was packed with songs from musicals and popular favourites, with performers drawn from Joe and Jamie’s wide circle of friends in local theatre. “We wanted people to have the freedom to choose what they sang,” Joe explained. “It made the night feel really special and I think the audience really enjoyed it.”
Both teenagers have a personal connection to the cause, having lost their grandfathers to dementia. “I think they would have loved the concert,” Joe added. “I’m sure they would have been so proud.”
Local businesses also showed their support by donating raffle prizes, and Dementia UK has thanked the duo for their fundraising efforts.
Joe and Jamie’s efforts have also earned them a nomination for the Warminster Youth Club’s Inspire Awards, which celebrate young people in the community.
When asked whether the concert might become a regular event, Joe said it was “too early to say”, but admitted the success had given them something to think about.
Pictured: Joe and Jamie
