Simple Minds members set to welcome soldiers home

Published on Monday 21 December 2009 09:51

A FREE concert to welcome back troops returning from Afghanistan is set to be held at an Edinburgh barracks next year.

Two former members of Simple Minds have already agreed to play at the event, and organisers are hopeful of lining up top Scottish acts such as the Proclaimers.

They are also looking for local bands willing to play supporting slots at the event, which will be staged at Redford Barracks, home of 3Rifles, on 7 May next year, with troops and their families set to be invited along.

It is thought up to 1,000 people will attend the event, being organised as a treat for the soldiers from 3Rifles and 1Scots, who will be returning from long tours in Afghanistan next year.

Derek Forbes, the bass player with Simple Minds from 1979 to 1985, and Brian McGee, the band's drummer until 1981, have both agreed to perform at the event.

Jerry Boyle, 34, a full-time reserve Lance Corporal with 3Rifles, is organising the show and said he hoped it would be a nice event for the troops and their families.

"I work as a welfare officers and so we deal with a lot of the casualties who come back, and I know a lot of the guys who are out there and I wanted to do something for them when they got back," he said.

"There's still a lot to organise, and I am hoping to get some sponsorship to help cover the cost of hiring a stage and lighting equipment."

Anyone who would be able to help out with sponsorship or any other aspect of the concert should contact Mr Boyle by e-mail at: [e-mail].