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Wakefield Hospice Dementia Group5th December 2025
Wakeylele at Wakefield Hospice – A Festive Return
Wakeylele Band made a welcome return visit to Wakefield Hospice to entertain the Alzheimer group, ably organised by Thelma Srivastava. With space very much at a premium, only ten band members plus our fearless leader Pop Newton could be squeezed in, so creating a “big band” sound from a “small lift” lineup was the order of the day.
Undaunted, the chosen few rose to the challenge, helped enormously by a strong showing of festive fashion. Pipps’s Cheeky Elf outfit stole the show and set the Christmas tone nicely (whether we were ready for it or not).
Unfortunately, this did mean our usual bard didn’t make the final cut. Reports later surfaced of disappointed band members pressing their faces to the glass and hammering on the doors, begging to be let in. Thelma, however, remained resolute. Mince pie in one hand and a schooner of Harvey’s Bristol Cream in the other, she politely but firmly suggested they get on their bikes.
Pre-concert nerves were understandable, as the event had been cancelled and rebooked, with some confusion over start times. When nervous, Thelma knits, and by that morning had nearly completed a scarf. Thankfully, calm was restored when Pippy arrived in full Elf regalia and Christmas cheer took over.
Pop, Chris and Roy handled the solos and, as ever, delivered the goods. The concert went very well, the audience were delighted, and everyone agreed it was a thoroughly enjoyable and festive afternoon — scarf production notwithstanding.
Aterwards each band member received a ‘Light up Life’ pin broach and Jo Gill the outreach Care Coordinator sent the following message:
Hi Thelma and all the Ukulele Band
Thank you all so much for coming to play for us at the hospice today. Your music brought such warmth, joy and comfort to our wellbeing group. The atmosphere you created was uplifting and it meant a great deal to everyone who joined us. your kindness and generosity made the day truly special. We are deeply grateful for the time and heart you shared with us.
Songlist from Concert