BUDDING ukulele players have been raising the roof — thanks to Lottery cash.

Taster sessions are being held at Kearsley Mount Methodist Church after Kearsley Musical Alliance Development received a £10,000 Awards for All grant for community-based projects.

About 20 people have been enjoying the weekly one-hour taster sessions for the instrument, popularised by George Formby in the 1940s.

The sessions involve tutorials from Jo Hudson, from Bolton Music Service.

People aged from six to 66 have been getting involved in the pastime, and Stephen Tonge, chairman of Churches on The Mount, said: “We decided to start ukulele taster sessions after reading about other groups in Bolton and because the instrument is becoming more popular.”

He said people have been enjoying the sessions and the church hopes to be able to start regular lessons in September for a small cost.

The windfall is being used to create a number of musical opportunities. Mon-ey has already been spent on brass band training and a community choir.

The fund covers costs of qualified and experienced musicians and instruments. The project is aimed at reducing isolation and people are welcome to try the uke at sessions at the church in Manchester Road, Kearsley, on Wednesday between 5.30pm and 6.30pm.