'Band In A Barn' Raises Staggering £11,500 for Brain Tumour Research

The rafters were well and truly rocking at Band In A Barn, a massively successful music event that raised an astounding £11,500 for Brain Tumour Research. Held on Saturday, September 27, the charity fundraiser brought more than 360 people together at Clifton Reynes, Bedford, for a night of music and community generosity.

The Personal Story Behind the Fundraiser

The motivation behind the event was a deeply personal one for the organisers. The idea for Band In A Barn was the brainchild of Ben Davies, son of local business owner George Davies of George Davies Turf. Ben's dedication was spurred by a recent shock within the business.

"Back in February 2025, when one of our lorry drivers was diagnosed with a brain tumour, it sent shock waves through our business," George Davies stated. “Life can pivot on a sixpence sometimes.” This sudden diagnosis galvanised the family, business and the wider local community, prompting them to act immediately to support Brain Tumour Research.

Live Music and Local Support Steal the Show

Keeping the energy high throughout the evening was the main act: Route 66, a popular local band from Olney known for their lively rock 'n' soul cover numbers. Their performance ensured the event lived up to its name, turning the barn into a vibrant concert venue.

The success of the evening was a true community effort, driven by local business support. Countless companies contributed raffle prizes and resources to support the cause. George Davies, a stalwart customer of MK Marking Systems, leveraged his local connections, which undoubtedly contributed to the high attendance and strong support.

In a show of direct support, MK Marking Systems provided a prominent banner for the event, which was proudly hung behind the stage to brand the venue and highlight the charity.

To have over £11,500 raised from the very first event far exceeded the initial goal, demonstrating the immense generosity of everyone who attended.

Brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under 40, yet historically receive only 1% of the national spend on cancer research. Events like Band In A Barn are crucial in closing this funding gap and pushing forward life-saving research.