The Folk Evening held by Ilkley Wharfedale Rotary Club on July 20 was a resounding success in more ways than one.

A near sell-out crowd gathered in the Clarke Foley centre to hear a full and varied programme of three acts.

First up were Hazjak with their multi-instrumental blend of Roots, Americana and Folk. Their trademark close harmonies captivated the audience from the outset.

Next came the Heathen Kings, with powerful bass and amazing vocals, telling stories in the English tradition.

Last, but by no means least, the Duncan McFarlane Band gave a rollicking performance of favourites old and new.  Audience participation was encouraged and all responded enthusiastically.

All three bands came together to round off the evening in fine style, with a spirited rendering of Duncan’s Robin Hood’s Bay.

The audience at the folk evening held at the Clarke Foley CentreThe audience at the folk evening held at the Clarke Foley Centre

In the words of Andie Harper, former BBC radio presenter: “There is no substitute for live music and Saturday night at the Clarke Foley certainly lived up to that. Three completely different acts kept the audience entertained, and participating throughout. The energy, enthusiasm and sheer musicianship were a joy to behold and made for a thoroughly enjoyable evening.”

Thanks to the musicians’ waiving their fees for charity, the event raised a very encouraging £1,300. The sum will be split between Parkinson’s charities and Rotary International’s Foundation target, End Polio Now. This crucial vaccination programme has seen cases of wild polio reduced to a mere handful worldwide and is an on-going commitment. What’s more, any money raised for the cause is matched pound for pound by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation –a welcome boost to a local initiative.

Ilkley Wharfedale Rotary Club would like to pay tribute in these pages to the staff at Clarke-Foley, for whom nothing was too much trouble and whose skill and good humour made the evening a pleasure for everyone.