Borders singers turn to Facebook to fundraise and entertain region on lockdown

Using Facebook live, three Jedburgh entertainers are not not only keeping their followers entertained, but are at the same time encouraging those who would have paid to see them live, to instead donate money online.

Robbie Wharton-Hayes, an Elvis impersonator and owner of Jed Baguettes takeaway, has raised £160 so far for UK charity mental health Foundation during two live three-hour gigs over Facebook.The 48-year-old has been entertaining since he was 13, but has recently taken to using his personal Facebook page to entertain during lockdown.

“I’m grateful that people took time out to listen in on both live shows and the money raised for the Mental Health Foundation was greatly appreciated,” he said. “I entertain because it brings joy to people in the current climate. People deserve it and if I can help in that way then Elvis is in the building.”

Kim Ferreira, well-known as Kimberly Brown on the Borders singing circuit, is also going live with charity in mind, after her first foray into performing on Facebook live a couple weeks ago saw her Saturday night video accrue more than 7,000 views.

Spurred on by that success, she’s going live from her living room in Kelso again this Saturday night in aid of Radio Borders-backed charity Cash for Kids.

“By doing a live gig on Facebook I hoped it would maybe brighten up some people’s Saturday nights while they’re staying at home, so they could have a dance and a laugh in their living room,” Kim said. “Then I thought why not try raise some money for charity while I’m doing it? I chose Cash for Kids to help children and families in this area.

“They make a real difference to the lives of local children and young people.”

The 35-year-old, who works for Lindsay and Gilmour pharmacies added: “Their support is even more vital during the current coronavirus crisis. Many more families will be struggling to make ends meet.

“I hope that if people tune in to watch my live gig they might click on the link to donate whatever they can to help local families. No donation will be too small or big.”

To watch Kim’s gig on Saturday night search for Kimberly Brown Singer on Facebook. To donate you can visit www.cashforkidsgive.co.uk/campaign/radio-borders-general-fundraising.

Meanwhile, fans of rock and country music can also be enjoying the sounds of Jedburgh singer and guitarist Allan Scott.

Trapped at home because his live work has dried up, he has been taking to social media twice weekly to beat the boredom and keep in touch with his fans.

He’s encouraging folk to “pour a stiff drink, tune in and rock out for a while” each Wednesday and Saturday nights from 8pm by searching Allan Scott Live on Facebook.