The Moonbeams

A fundraising effort is music to the ears of two organisations in the Yorkshire Dales.

Contemporary folk band The Moonbeams have pledged to donate cash from sales of their latest album in recognition of the landscape and people that inspire their work.

The Long Preston-based quartet will give £2 from proceeds of their new release Sparrowhawk’s Eye, split between the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust and the Yorkshire Dales Society.

The band’s music is described as original songs of life, love and nature.

Jon Avison, vocalist and guitar player in The Moonbeams, said: “The Moonbeams’ Songs from the Dales draw much of their inspiration from the landscape and people of the Dales and as these charities actively work to protect and enhance the landscapes and culture of the Dales it makes sense for us to contribute to their work.”

David Sharrod, YDMT director, said: “We are very grateful to The Moonbeams for choosing to support the work of YDMT through the sale of their new album.

“Their generosity will make a real difference to our work caring for the landscape, communities and economy of this special part of the world that inspires their music.

“Now fans can not only enjoy The Moonbeams’ music at home, but they can also make an important contribution to the environment, communities and economy of the Yorkshire Dales.”

Colin Speakman, chair of the Yorkshire Dales Society added: “Our charity works hard to protect everything that makes the Dales special – including its amazing cultural heritage, communities and landscapes.

“The Moonbeams deftly blend all these aspects together in their evocative songs. We are delighted they have joined the society as affiliate members.

“They will play a special gig for the society on Saturday 6 July at the Boar’s Head, Long Preston.

“We have a long association with our like-minded friends at the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust and are very pleased both charities will jointly benefit from the band’s support.”

The Moonbeams are Jon Avison, Jen Haines, Ben Avison and Ken Hill.

The album is on sale on the band’s website and via selected outlets across the Yorkshire Dales.