Hucknall Library June 2025

A fabulous afternoon saw some HUGs being entertained with a fabulously intimate performance by the Mishra Duo, confirming Byron’s resting place as a centre of arts and creativity. Organised by Inspire Culture and Learning at the newly refurbished Hucknall Library. 

Sessions sponsored by the Arts Council and National Lottery under the Songs & Scones banner, there was also cake. Keep an eye out for future events: https://www.inspireculture.org.uk/whats-on/events/

HUGGY the Sloth , Aspley June 2025

Huggy is our group mascot and has joined us at many events and performances. If you look carefully you should spot "HUGs" somewhere in most of the pictures.

Huggy was recently presented with a very special ukulele seen here sitting halfway down the stairs.

I'm sure there's a song in there somewhere.

Melbourne House Care Home, Aspley June 2025

It's always nice to be invited back. It generally means that none of the troupe embarrassed themselves on our last visit. This time we were showered with doughnuts and chocolate biscuits, just what the doctor ordered.

Trayce and the staff joined in so enthusiastically, adding to what was a lovely event, and it looks like we will be doing it all again, so please don't forget the doughnuts.

Annersley Lodge, Hucknall June 2025

It's a pleasure to entertain at this fabulous venue. There's always a warm welcome from Cory and the staff, not to mention the superb tea, coffee, cake and biscuits.

We even had a bit of dancing this time round. Well done everyone, a delightful afternoon had by all. We were even joined by a special band member, Edna.

Air Ambulance Volunteer Event June 2025

Certainly a very special event held in the Carriage Court at The Renaissance, Kelham Hall, Newark. Posh for us lot, and didn't we scrub up well. What a fabulous day, celebrating the efforts of all the people involved in keeping this valuable service in the air.

We were restricted to only a few group members, but I'm sure that those on the reserve list and others who were unable to join us will rejoice and share in the good fortune of those who did play and received a fabulous afternoon tea.

It's never easy when there is a restriction on numbers, but we still put on a good show.

Cornwater Evergreens May 2025

At Cornwater Evergreens, their mission is to enhance the quality of life for older adults by providing a vibrant, supportive environment where they can thrive. 

As you can see from the picture, the youngest member of the band, Eve, is just tuning up be ear.

Great enthusiastic lot, thank you for such a warm welcome.

Chilling at the Pit May 2025

Following the Tesco gig, a few of us went to chill to some live music at The Pit, Newstead.

A fabulous venue and well worth a visit if you are ever in the area. Plenty of varied live music and as Sally will confirm, the Guinness was superb.

Hucknall Tesco Charity Busk May 2025

Big thank you to Haley and everyone from Tesco who helped make this charity busk in aid of the Hucknall Hope Lea Project such a success.

We certainly cheered up an afternoon with a bit of rock and roll, and surprised a few Sunday shoppers.

The event featured our very own superstar and legend in his own lunchtime, Ukulele Eric.

Hucknall Library,  Songs and Scones May 2025

Some of the troupe were fortunate enough to be entertained by Ruth Lee, a professional harpist, as part of a community initiative by Inspire Culture.

We've no idea why she needs so many strings when 4 will do. Apparently Ruth also plays the ukulele so all is not lost.

A fantastic afternoon which also included tea and cake.

The Mercy Care Home,  May 2025

Some of us joined our mates from A-UP ukuleles to play at a special VE day anniversary event all the way in darkest Derbyshire, organised by Carol and Chris.

If you look carefully, you will see that A-Up's were joined by their very own Land Girl.

Are those boots made for walking, Carol?

The Spinney, Residential Care home, Nuthall, Notts May 2025

Always a pleasure to entertain at the Spinney. Last year we met the Spare Mayor, this year it was the Mayor proper. Great to meet you again Sue, congratulations and we hope you have a great term in office.

A special mention must also go to Rachael, the tea lady. Excellent work once again.

Belper Arts Trail: May 2025

A few of us joined the Belper Ukulele Group (BUGs) to perform at the De Bradlei Mill as part of the Bank Holiday Arts Trail.

Great courtyard atmosphere with lots of passers-by joining in with the singsong. Congratulation to Jan (BUGs) for such a well organised event.

The Nottingham Ukulele Festival: May 2025

The Hucknall Ukulele Group (HUGs) were the opening act for the 2025 Nottingham Ukulele Festival held at the Boat and Horses Beeston Rylands. With the 80 year's VE day anniversary coming up, we added a bit of patriotism into the theme.  

This is a fabulous venue no matter what the weather, let's hope we can do it all again next year.

Hucknall Market Sesquicentennial (150 years) Celebrations: April 2025

It's always an honour to be invited to play at special events. The whole place was buzzing with various entertainments. A fantastic crowd, singing along with some of our old favourites as well as a few new tunes.

We must admit that the staff at Ashfield DC really pulled out all the stops for this one, including a flash mob.... A brilliant day for everybody involved.

My Sight, Nottingham: April 2025

Another trip to the middle of Nottingham, this time playing at the My Sight Notts Centre.

A charity whose aim is to boost confidence and support people living with sight loss, help adapt and regain independence.

Irish Club, Memory Lane Event, Nottingham: April 2025

We often get people dancing, but wow, this was something special. 

Bit of a trek for some of us from as far apart as Toton, Chesterfield and Mansfield to the centre of  Nottingham, but what a welcome.

Thanks to Fran and everyone who made this such a memorable event.

Sherwood House Residential Care Home, Linby: April 2025

Thank you the residents and staff for such a fun morning. A special mention must go Jenni seen here leading the troupe.

Can't remember which song this was, but clearly needed a bit of hand waving to help us along.

Looking forward to coming back, maybe around Christmas time, if not before.

Hucknall Ukulele Group Tour Bus: April 1st 2025

Thank you to the anonymous benefactor who left this on our doorstep today. It means that our tour of european capitals can now go ahead in the style and comfort that befits one of the UK's leading community music groups.

Unfortunately it'll have to stay behind on the international leg of the tour playing the Sydney Opera House and Carnegie Hall, but I'm sure we'll cope.

Aldercar Residential Home, Hucknall: March 2025

At the Aldercar Residential Care Home they provide general care and with specialist support of people with Dementia. 

We soon had the staff and residents tapping their feet, singing along and some even dancing away with a bit of rock and roll.

Absolutely wonderful atmosphere, thanks for such a warm welcome.

Breathe Easy Group, United Reformed Church, Hucknall: March 2025

They provide support and information for people living with asthma and other lung conditions. They also supply specially adapted respiratory exercise classes to help control breathlessness, boost confidence and wellbeing.

Apparently, a good old sing-song is something the doctor's ordered, so good job we came along then.  And the cakes were fabulous, thank you.

Our Centre, Centre, Kirkby in Ashfield: March 2025

A small contingent of the group (Mike & Elaine) played at this fabulous local charity serving the community, bringing people together and offering a variety of services. The picture is of our Sloathy getting a hug from Pat.

See: https://ourcentre.org.uk/

Radford Care Group: March 2025

It's always a pleasure to be able to give something back for the support given to the family of one of our own. The Radford Care Group provide specialist daytime care for the elderly.

I'm sure most us felt quite at home.

Hucknall Library Reopening Fun Day: March 2025

It's not very often that you are encouraged to make a noise in a library. However, we formed part of entertainment at the official reopening of the library after extensive refurbishment. We had a new member join us just for a while, the one wearing all the bling happens to be Richard Butler, chairman of Nottingham County Council (had to look that up). Congratulations to Kath and all the staff for a wonderful event.

Discover Ashfield Awards: February 2025

Mike represented the group by receiving the annual Community Champion Award from the Discover Ashfield people. This is in recognition of the fun, joy and entertainment that the group bring to so many at public events together with regular care and residential home visits.

Such a wonderful group of people helping to make a difference.

Annesley Lodge Care Home, Hucknall: February 2025

Our second visit to this well established care home. Always good fun with the staff and residents. 

Thanks to Cory (pictured leading the band) for the kind donation and the fabulous selection of cake and biscuits. Looking forward to seeing you all again in the Summer and at Christmas.

Over 60's Youthful Group, Hucknall: February 2025

We were invited to play for the group's 10th anniversary party at the very well appointed St Johns Church Hall on Nottingham Road Hucknall.

Helped by the Tesco's community support initiative, this group provides a variety of activities to combat loneliness and promote self confidence in a warm inviting environment. Fabulous audience and a great sing-song (overran by an hour).

Fairway View Care Home, Beeston: February 2025

Always a great reception at Fairway View, but missed the homemade cheesecake this visit. However made up for in part by a never ending supply of cake, tea and coffee.

Glad that we added "Happy Birthday" to the latest edition of out performance songbook.

Cornwater Evergreens Charity, Ravenshead, Notts: January 2025

It's been a very busy beginning of the year, and this time we found ourselves performing  at the Cornwater Evergeens Charity.

They provide services to older people to help prevent social isolation etc. Really nice venue and great audience participation. We felt right at home.

Entertaining at Southfield Court: January 2025

Southfield Court is a residential retirement complex run by Broxtowe Borough Council. Built in 1985 it supports independent living with a variety of services and facilities.

The troupe turned out in force on a cold and windy Monday morning to entertain what turned out to be a lively and interactive audience.

Thank you to Jane who organised the event with a never ending supply of biscuits, tea and coffee to keep the troupe refreshed. There is as video of Jane joining in the fun, which we can't remember saying we wouldn't publish, so it's [HERE].

Entertaining at the Rutland Manor Care Home: January 2025

A few of us popped over to the Rutland Manor Care Home in Ilkeston to play along with our mates from A-up Allestree Ukulele Players. The cake was lovely. 

In our local area there are several Ukulele Groups who often mix and mingle at events. The comradery and friendships that have built up over time are very special. Carol and Chris organise the Allestree Group are very welcoming, so if you're ever in the Derby area on a Monday afternoon, pop in to the Red Cow and say hello.

The Sheriff of Nottingham discloses secret weapon:  January 2025

During an interview on Nottingham Today, the Sheriff inadvertently gave the Krampus advanced knowledge of his dastardly plan to counter their attempt to disrupt the Sunday Wassailing in Sherwood Forest.

In a social media comment the Krampus stated "HUG's eeek. We’re going to need bigger bells" although this could be a typo. 

HUGs Newsletter January 2025

2024 was a fabulous and exciting year for the group. Combined with our regular weekly sessions, we managed over 40 performances, including a TV appearance. We helped raise over £3000 for charities throughout the year.

Our favourite review from last year: "We were present last evening and really enjoyed it especially HUG'S. Your section brought the audience alive, great nostalgia. Thank you. x A very happy Christmas to you all" Audrey Plumb (Air Ambulance Charity Evening)

Westbourne Court,  Bramcote January 2025

Our first outing of 2025 took us to a new venue. 

This is a well appointed independent living scheme operated by Broxtowe Borough Council.

Jane, our host, kept us very well supplied with tea and biscuits, but her co-worker Rachel had set a very high bar.

Jubilee Court, Hucknall New Year's Eve 2024

It's always a pleasure to see so many people enjoying themselves. Residents, staff and performers all having a great time. Thanks to all the troupe who turned out in force yet again for our last performance of the year and to staff at Jubilee Court who joined in the fun. A special mention must go to the boogie dancer who tentititvely took to the floor and then we couldn't stop him.  A brilliant end to what has been a very busy year.

ITV News Item, Christmas 2024

During rehearsals for the Air Ambulance Christmas Concert we were interviewed by the ITV news team.

This was broadcast on national TV on the 23rd December 2024.  John (being interviewed) was one of the main instigators of our involvement with this very worthwhile charity. 

Allestree Scarecrow Festival:  September 2024

Here, some of us, as members of the A-up Allestree Ukulele Players, have joined in for an afternoon entertaining at the Allestree Scarecrow Festival.   See the link below for a list of local Ukulele Groups around the Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire area.

https://www.hucknallukes.com/.../reso.../everydays-a-uke-day

Hucknall Community Day: September 2024

A little bit of rain didn't dampen the spirits of the troop or the enthusiastic audience.

The Community Day is always a popular event organised by the Hucknall Rotary Club to promote and recognise community activities.

It's said that you usually play venues twice. Once on the way up and once on the way down. Let's hope we get invited back again next year for a third time.

PAPPFEST:  August 2024

The Hucknall Ukulele Group (HUGs) were invited to play at this well supported and brilliantly organised charity event. The huge effort made by all really paid off, even the weather played its part.  

A fantastic day, full of music, events, food, merchandising stalls, drinks. We seemed to generate quite a bit of interest with our setup, so looking forward to seeing you at the Bowman on a Tuesday evening. Huge thanks to everyone involved.

Grand Care Home, West Bridgford, Nottingham: August 2024

Once again supporting one of our own, where their mum is now a resident at this very nice and spacious facility.  Downside, we got a speeding ticket on the home.

Beaumont House, Hucknall, Nottinghamshire: August 2024

Most of us didn't have to go far to entertain at one of our local care homes.

A fun packed afternoon entertaining with all the old favourites. Not only the performers, but songs as well 🤣.

Grove Court, Chilwell, Nottingham: August 2024

Always a popular event, entertaining at this well presented retirement housing complex operated by Broxtowe Borough Council. A particular mention must go to Rachel, the tea lady, who kept us in refreshments for the duration.

Sharewear Charity Fundraiser, Bulwell: June 2024

We joined Sotto Voce and the Bulwell Riverside Community Choir to play in the beautiful church of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour orchestrated by musical director Matt Burton.

Jubilee Court Care Home, Hucknall: May 2024

The troop turned out in force to support one of our own in a tribute to a loving mother and wife and the care she received at the Jubilee Court Care Home, Hucknall.  Did someone say fancy dress?

Boat & Horses Ukulele Festival: May 2024

Blessed with fine weather, the troop turned out in force to support this great initiative. A brilliant, friendly and welcoming venue.

Let's hope this becomes a location for an annual "Nottingham Ukulele Festival", who knows. 

And, the burger bar was simply divine.

Cruise Ship Buddleia returns to port: July 2023

The staff and residents of Buddleia  House had gone on a world tour in the Cruise Ship Buddleia. They sampled delights from all the different countries they visited.

The Hucknall Ukulele Group were specially commissioned to welcome the travellers back to their home port.

Hucknall Christmas Festival: December 2023

One of the coldest nights of the year saw the Hucknall Ukulele Group and friends perform at the switching on of the Christmas lights in Hucknall.

The troupe had the crowd singing along to a selection of Christmas favourites. Credit must go to the Hucknall Rotary Club and Ashfield Events for promoting  such an  enjoyable evening for both performers and audience alike.

Halloween at Buddleia House: October 2023

Would you go out in the dark with this lot around?

Fortunately we managed to keep the spooks under control and had a lovely time during the afternoon.

Park House Care Home: Bulwell February 2023

Community spirit and musical joy strums its way to Park House Care Home as it welcomed the vibrant sounds of the Hucknall Ukulele Group. 

Known for their lively tunes and infectious enthusiasm, brought smiles and toe-tapping rhythms to the residents and staff, fostering an atmosphere of joy and togetherness.

See the rest of the review [HERE]

Newgate Lodge Retirement Party: Mansfield November 2023

A popular venue in collaboration with the Mansfield Ukulele Group. 

To spice things up a bit we had a hat and shoes competition during the second set, judged by a member of the audience. 

Congratulations to Chris and David who walked away with the top prizes.

Hope Lea Project Open Day: Hucknall, August 2023

A local registered charity which aims to improve the quality of life for people with a learning disability.

The group pictured here with Sir Mark Spencer, Minister of State for Food, Farming and Fisheries  at the time.

Hucknall Community Day. September 2023

On one of the hottest days of the year.

The Community Day is always a popular event organised by the Hucknall Rotary Club to promote and recognise community activities

Bulwell Bogs Family Day. August 2023

Stepping in at the last minute, the Hucknall Ukulele Group together with friends from Mapperley, Bulwell, Mansfield and other Ukulele Groups. 

A brilliant community spirit actioned to save the day.

Fabulous day with lots of activities culminating in the popular Duck Race.

Ukulele Flash Mob: Titchfield Park Hucknall. July 2023

Took a bit of organising, but we got there.

Joined by members from several local Ukulele Groups plus the Bulwell Riverside Choir.

 Special thanks to Lee and David (local councillors) who helped with the mirad of regulations and official permissions. 

Buddleia House Coronation Lunch: Hucknall. May 2023

Our second visit to the Buddleia House residential care home, saw us invited to their Coronation Lunch on Monday 8th May 2023.

We couldn't let the opportunity go by without taking along the ukuleles for a bit of a sing song'

Macmillan Cancer Support. May 2023

Presenting Green King Brewery with donations from the Coronation Fun-Strum held at the Bowman on Sunday 7th May 2023.

We raised £119.97 including a PayPal donation. A big thank you to all the groups and individuals who took part to make this such a memorable event

Coronation Fun-Strum at the Bowman. May 2023

On Sunday 7th May, the Hucknall Ukulele Group (HUGs) hosted what we believe to be the largest organised ukulele meeting in Nottinghamshire. Over 100 ukulele players.

With technical help and assistance from Neil Marriott and the Nottingham Ukulele Orchestra, the event featured a number of local groups each leading a pre-planned set.

With sponsorship from Animal Doctor, all registered ukulele players received a full colour complimentary song book covering the whole event.

Sets  included the Mapperley Ukulele Group, the Mansfield Ukulele Group, Long Eaton U3A Ukulele Group, Hucknall Ukulele Group and the Nottingham Ukulele Orchestra.

Entertainment at the Spinney, Nuthall. May 2023

The Spinney is a retirement housing complex run by Broxstowe Borough Council under their independent living scheme.

The communal living area provided a great backdrop to the HUGs Performance Troop from the Hucknall Ukulele Group playing their selection of sing-along songs.

As you can see, we were lucky to have the King made an appearance.

Entertainment at Buddleia House Care Home, Hucknall.  March 2023

The very first outing of the HUGs Performance Troupe. Basically a collection of ukulele enthusiasts who can make it on a particular day.

Buddleia House is a purpose-built care home based in Hucknall, Nottinghamshire. One of the first in the UK to apply the Montessori method to dementia care. 

A big thank you must go to the staff who made this such a memorable event.

HUGs Christmas bit of a do...  The Bowman November 2022

A huge thank you to everyone who supported our Christmas Charity Evening at the Bowman. We raised £26 for the Alzheimer's Society who strongly support musical participation within the community. Check out the fabulous work by Nottingham's own Vicky McClure.

It was lovely to see the support from the Hucknall U3A members along with MUGs from Mansfield.