FORGET George Formby and tap along to Hale and District U3A UkuHalee Band instead.

The 29-strong group, who play numbers from the Beatles and Buddy Holly, are currently practising Raw Hide at their Monday afternoon get together at St Peter’s Assembly Rooms, Hale.

The band, made up of retirees, began in September 2012. Their group leader, Jean Peters, who took over three years ago and obtains the music and arranges concerts, said: “None of us had played before 2012. We were all beginners. A chap from another U3A group came two or three times to show us the basic chords and then we were on our own.

“Since we went public two years ago, we have raised £3,500 for local charities.”

Although they play for old people’s homes and dementia groups they are also popular with ladies’ groups.

Jean said: “Because we sing songs from the 50s and 60s, they appeal to older people. When people with dementia start stnging, it’s very rewarding.

“You only need to learn three chords and you can have a real good sing-song.”

The band has two soloists – Arthur Hulse and Tony Barker, who is the leader.

“They make concerts more interesting,” said Jean.

Ukuleles are relatively cheap costing about £20 from music stores. There are six different types – Piccolo, Soprano and Concert (the most popular), Tenor, Baritone and Bass, which looks like a guitar.

Their last concert was at Manor Hey Care Home in Urmston on April 7.

For more information, contact 0161 928 7302 or email jean17peters@gmail.com.