Groove for Good: Woody’s Lodge Presents a Northern Soul Night for a Cause!
Get ready to lace up your dancing shoes and step back in time for a night of northern soul classics all for a great cause! Woody’s Lodge is excited to announce our upcoming fundraising event, a Northern Soul dance and music night, on February 24th at 7:30 pm at the Wrexham Memorial Hall. Join us for an unforgettable evening of music, dance, and community spirit as we come together to support the veterans and emergency service leavers we serve.
The Beat of Northern Soul Music
Experience the magic of Northern Soul, a genre that originated in the dance clubs of Northern England in the late 1960s. Characterized by its infectious rhythm, soaring vocals, and energetic dance moves, Northern Soul has a timeless appeal that transcends generations. Our event promises to transport you to the heart of this vibrant musical era, creating an atmosphere that’s perfect for both seasoned enthusiasts and those new to the genre.
Showcasing the DJ’s
Colwyn Roberts
Colwyn joined the Royal Navy’s Fleet Air Arm at 30 and served at various bases, including HMS Deadalus, HMS Heron, HMS Osprey, and HMS Portland. He also served on the Invincible and Ocean ships. As a member of the Mast Manning Display Team, Colwyn contributed to both 800 and 801 squadrons at RAF Cottersmore before epilepsy forced his retirement at 50. Approximately six years ago, he made his DJ debut on the Soul scene at the Llandudno Seaside Soul Charity All Dayer and has since performed at events like the ‘Help the Heroes’ charity event in Manchester and various venues in North Wales.
David Barron
David, a Dundee native, joined the Royal Navy in 1975 and trained as a mechanical fitter for Westland Helicopters at HMS Osprey. His first ship was HMS Kedelston, a mine sweeper, and he named his first son after it. Assigned to fishery protection and ‘stop and search’ activities in the Atlantic and Irish Seas, David left the Navy in 1978 for family reasons. Despite collecting Soul records for many years, Dave initially preferred to dance to them, than play them on the wheels of steel! However, he was finally tempted behind the decks just 8 years ago, and now having married a north Walian soulie and moved to Llandudno Junction, Dave regularly guest DJ’s at many local venues.
Colin Mark Thomas
Colin had a diverse career in HM Forces, starting as a Clerk in the Royal Air Force (1977-87) and reaching the rank of Corporal. He then served as a territorial infantryman with the Royal Welsh Fusiliers (1987-88) and an Operator with the Intelligence Corps (1988-2000), attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. During his service, Colin played rugby for various teams and was stationed in the UK, Cyprus, and Germany, with operational tours in Northern Ireland, Bosnia, and Kosovo. Now semi-retired, Colin believes that his love of Northern Soul music coupled with the ability to play his records out loud whilst DJ’ing, has been very important in lifting his spirit when needed, and in aiding his transition to life as a ‘civvie’.
Rob Lloyd
Rob, growing up in 1960’s Wrexham, benefitted from having an older sister who would purchase all the latest Soul records in the charts and indoctrinate him by playing them endlessly at home.
Rob started buying records for himself in the early 70’s and has been obsessively collecting all things Soul since then – records, soul books and magazines, tour programmes, promotional photos, patches, sheet music etc.
Wanting to hear his records played out loud, Rob started organising Tamla Motown & Northern Soul nights in the mid 1980’s and has continued ever since, whilst also guest DJ’ing at venues throughout the UK.
Daryl Jones
Daryl’s DJ journey began in the 1970s, spinning tunes at youth clubs in Wrexham alongside a friend with a mobile disco. After a hiatus due to family responsibilities, he returned to the decks in the 1990s for occasional Soul nights. In 2012, he became a Resident DJ for Soul Train Soul Nights in Wrexham, managing the social media and technical aspects. The team, led by Rob Lloyd, has raised significant funds for charities, with their promotions thriving.
Wrexham Memorial Hall: The Perfect Venue
We’ve chosen Wrexham Memorial Hall as the backdrop for this musical extravaganza. Its spacious dance floor, and central location make it the ideal setting for a night of Northern Soul magic. Gather your friends, family, and fellow music lovers for an evening that promises to be as memorable as it is meaningful.
Why Northern Soul for a Cause
At Woody’s Lodge, we believe in the power of music to bring people together and create positive change. The funds raised from this event will go towards supporting veterans and emergency services in their transition to civilian life. By attending, you’re not just enjoying a night of fantastic music – you’re making a tangible impact on the lives of those who have served our communities.
Tickets and How to Get Involved
Tickets are £5 per person and are paid for on the night. In addition to attending, there are various ways to get involved, from spreading the word on social media to volunteering on the night. Every contribution, big or small, plays a vital role in making this event a success.
Spread the Word
Help us make this event a triumph by sharing the excitement with your friends, family, and colleagues. Use the hashtag #GrooveForGood on social media, and let everyone know about this unique opportunity to enjoy a night of incredible music while supporting a noble cause.
Mark your calendars for February 24th, 7:30 pm, and get ready to dance the night away at Woody’s Lodge Northern Soul Night. Your attendance and support will make a real difference in the lives of veterans and emergency service leavers. Let’s come together, groove for good, and make this event one for the books!
