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Leftfest fundraiser for Highland Foodbank exceeds expectations





Some of the organisers of Leftest, with a representative from RMT Scotland who is donating a cheque for £100 to the night
Some of the organisers of Leftest, with a representative from RMT Scotland who is donating a cheque for £100 to the night

The fourth Leftfest fundraiser event for Highland Foodbank exceeded expectations on Saturday.

Taking place on October 2 at Tooth and Claw, this was the first Leftfest fundraiser since the pandemic, and raised more money than any of the previous events. Through ticket sales, donations, a raffle, and sales of art and merchandise, £1,247 was raised. In addition, over 190 food items were donated by attendees.

Local musical legend Maraan on stage
Local musical legend Maraan on stage

Entry downstairs at Tooth and Claw was free and featured music, comedy and art, whereas a ticketed event upstairs featured five bands, all of the loud punk political variety, some of them local, and some from further afield, such as Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Cheques handed over to Foodbank manager Lorna Dempster (middle) by two of the Leftfest organisers, Gina Martin (left) and Pete Davidson (right)
Cheques handed over to Foodbank manager Lorna Dempster (middle) by two of the Leftfest organisers, Gina Martin (left) and Pete Davidson (right)

One of the organisers Pete Davidson said: "It's been a couple years since we've been able to put on an event, and as the foodbank is such a lifeline for so many it was the obvious choice to focus our support on this year.

“We were blown away with the support from the community, and it wasn't just our little Leftfest group that was responsible for making sure that this was a success. The arts community, the music scene, local comics, and the amazing venue that is the Tooth and Claw helped ensure this was our most successful event yet.

Edinburgh feminist queer punk bank Fingering at the Disco take to the stage at Leftfest
Edinburgh feminist queer punk bank Fingering at the Disco take to the stage at Leftfest

“Punters enjoyed the atmosphere, the buzz all night was amazing and there was something for everyone. We were asked when the next one is on, smiles all round, and we're looking forward to more in the future. From all of us, thank you to everyone involved on the day, and past and present. We're going to have a little rest, but watch this space!"

A small sample of some of the food donated. Pictures: Stephen Doyle
A small sample of some of the food donated. Pictures: Stephen Doyle

If you are a band or artist interested in getting involved in future events, or would like to get involved as a volunteer or co-organiser, Leftfest would love to hear from you: leftfestinverness@gmail.com, or find them on social media.


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