Gibshill Community activist Brian Heron has created 'Back Tae Ma Roots', a collection of songs about growing up in Greenock's east end and his experiences there. The former social worker has been running his music group in the Gibshill Community Centre, which also doubles up as a warm space for local residents, for the last two years. Fellow musicians stop by to join in with the sessions, while others come along for the company and to listen to the music.
Now Brian hopes that his album will raise vital funds to help keep the group going and continue giving people somewhere to go. Brian, who grew up in Gibshill, said: "I wanted to make this album to keep the group going. "We started it up with warm space funds and we would love to keep it going.
"I put my heart and soul into the album. The songs are about memories from childhood, like passing the old St Mungo's Church, as well visits to beauty spots like Lunderston. "I have always written songs about my own life and experiences.
"The sessions on Mondays are great, with about 40 of us coming along. Some come to play and others just want to listen. "Everyone is welcome to come along and join in.
" A long standing community worker, Brian has spoken before about his difficult upbringing and spending time in Geilsland School in Ayrshire after getting into trouble with the police. He recently gave evidence at the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry, both as a victim and as a social worker. Brian who saved his life, and he continues to give back.
Over the years he has produced several albums drawing on his experiences in the town. Other musicians who also attend the sessions also contributed to the album Back Tae Ma Roots, which will be launched on Monday, October 7. The group meets in Gibshill Community Centre every Monday from 11.
30am to 1.30pm, with all welcome..
