Wigan retro music collective lands prestigious award for its cultural and charity work

The Lankykats collective, based at Standish Unity Club on Cross Street, has been running for 11 years and brings together music enthusiasts with a shared love of the sounds of the ‘50s and ‘60s.

It has now won the prestigious Lancastrian Award 2022 for people and organisations who do good things in the community.

As well as celebrating the swinging sounds of rock ‘n’ roll, Merseybeat and other vintage pop scenes, the Lankykats have also raised a total of £40,000 over the years donating the money to good and local causes.

The Lancastrian award was given to them in recognition of their “true Lancastrian spirit demonstrated by the support of others and being dedicated to making a difference in the community”, on by chair of Real friends of Lancashire, Phillip Walsh.

Lankykats founder Bill Hart said: “This is a recognition of the hard work and dedication of Lankykats volunteers, crew, bands and supporters in fund raising for local charities and providing popular live music to appreciative audiences.”

At their events, they enlist several bands to perform at the club in Standish and members, friends and interested parties attend paying a modest entry fee of £1 at the door. During the events a raffle is held and when leaving many attendees also donate their loose change into a bucket.

The proceeds are donated suitable charities and local good causes selected by the committee after vetting. To find out more visit: www.lankykats.co.uk