The unusually named DeMugPugs is a Wiltshire based ukulele group with over 75 members. The group was formed 10 years ago and members meet regularly in Devizes, Marlborough and Pewsey hence De Mug Pugs!
Many people will have heard DeMugPugs play free-of-charge at any number of local events, care homes, schools, carnivals and even the Wharf Theatre where they recently gave a rousing performance of 80s songs raising £1,000 for charity.
On Tuesday the group met in the Royal Oak in Marlborough and sprang a surprise on Jo Robbins their founder and band leader.
To thank her for her dedication over the last 10 years, Jo was given a bouquet and an oversize card showing all the supportive comments made by group members.
Jo encourages all comers to join and have fun, whilst she likes to take the music into the heart of the community.
But the big surprise, presented by Rob Sadler a co-founder, was a gift voucher valued at over £700 cashable at Southern Ukulele Store. Funds were donated in secret by group members.
Afterwards Jo Robbins said “I was totally overcome. I had not expected this and I’m so humbled that the group got together to do this.”
As a mark of the groups success, both Jo and Rob are nominated for awards at the forthcoming Wiltshire Music Awards to be held at the Corn Exchange, Devizes on 25th October.
‘Charley’s Aunt’ at The Watermill, Newbury
