A community jazz band has been handed a £300 boost by mobile network O2.
Band member and Cefn Hengoed resident Corey Jefford applied to the company’s Think Big scheme so the Cefn Hengoed Majestics could get new instruments.
Eighteen-year-old Corey, who has been a member of Cefn Hengoed Majestics since June 2012, is passionate about taking the band to the next level.
The band, which has 42 members, embraces residents of all ages – even having a two-year-old band mascot – and lots of young people take part. The band are gearing up for their first competition in April 2013, and have the support of the whole community behind them.
Corey said: “I’ve been in jazz bands since I was two myself, so it’s something that I’m really passionate about.
“As soon as I joined, I knew that I wanted to promote the band more and improve the standard so that we can have a real shot in competitions. I also want to try and get more people from Cefn Hengoed involved. When we found out we’d been awarded the funding to buy the new instruments we were jumping for joy. It really means a lot to us. We can’t wait to see what happens over the next year.”
Bill Eyres, head of O2 Think Big said: “Young people are brimming with ideas, passion and enthusiasm. We want to encourage all of that exciting creativity and give them a platform to help them do great things for their local communities. That’s what O2 Think Big is about. We give bright young people the tools and help needed to grow their passion and ideas, develop their skills and deliver great projects.
“Corey impressed us with his commitment to making a real difference to his local community and we wish him every success in what’s a really worthwhile project.”