Guitar strums up cash for hospice

Oct 16 2009 by Edwin Lawrence

Signed guitar

A GUITAR gifted from an Ayr music shop raised £700 for the Ayrshire Hospice.

The guitar was put up for auction at the hospice’s Autumn Ball.

And it attracted a lot of bids, due to the signatures it carries.

The guitar was gifted from McEwens Music in Arthur Street.

And boss Billy McEwen explained: “It’s a lovely looking guitar.

“But essentially it’s a budget instrument that would retail for around £150.

“And it was kindly given to us by P & R Howard, the musical instrument and accessory distributors of East Kilbride.

“The guitar carries the Westfield name on its headstock, and it certainly looks like a much more expensive instrument.

“But I’m sure those autographs would have helped the bidding.”

Among those who have signed the guitar are: Scottish singing sensation Paulo Nutini; Deep Purple lead singer Ian Gillan; Aaron Lewis and Mike Mushok from US band Staind; Jeph Howard and Bert McCracken from US band The Used; Real Radio breakfast DJ Cat Harvey; and Fran Healy of Travis, who signed the name ‘Travis’.

Ayrshire Hospice fundraiser Justine Cullen said: “We are delighted that McEwens Music was able to support our event with the guitar.

“And thanks are also due to Gary Coia from Ayr who sought out and gained the fabulous autographs.

“Their time and generosity is much appreciated, as the auction is a very important part of the ball, held this year at Seamill Hydro.”

Justine added: “The hospice, like many charities, is experiencing a downturn in income due to the economic climate, but we were heartened and delighted that individuals and local businesses continue to support us.”