Folk Aid was an event that was staged in Dumfries in support of the Lockerbie Air Disaster Fund. The concert was held at St. Joseph’s college in 1989, by musicians who wanted to help ease the grief of those who had suffered loss in the Lockerbie tragedy. The initial idea to hold this event was first raised by Phyllis Martin who suggested it to the committee and members of Dumfries Folksong Club, who then approached the Head of St. Joseph’s to possibly host the event.
This suggestion was greeted with great enthusiasm by both the Headmaster and staff of the college, who provided hospitality for the performers, technicians, and recording crews throughout the day and during the event.
Phyllis Martin and Irvine McVeagh (Director FAFL) will host the screenings at Robert Burns Centre Film Theatre and share memories of the event and people involved. Screenings are Monday, August 24th at 6.00pm and 7.30pm. Box Office: 01387 264808.
The concert was a big success, being filmed for television and a video release. This film features a host of performers from all over Britain including Dougie McLean, Sileas, Isaac Guillory, Archie Fisher, Kathryn Tickell and Stravaig. Along with many scenes of the town and the people of Lockerbie going about their day to day lives. Amazingly the recording was rediscovered earlier this year on a video tape, and has now been transferred to DVD. During the initial screening at the Robert Burns Centre Film Theatre the film officer suggested all the proceeds from the showing of the film should go to charity.
Cancer Research was chosen as the recipient as so many of the performers and friends from the original folk scene have been lost to the disease.
Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Community and Customer Services Chairman, Councillor Tom McAughtrie said of the concert filming;
“I would encourage as many people as possible to go along to the Robert Burns Film Theatre and take in the concert on the big screen. It’s a good chance for those who remember the original concert to take a trip down memory lane, and an equally good opportunity for us all to remember the original purpose of the concert.”
