Sleazy has been operating in Morecambe for 21 years. In that time it has brought thousands of music fans into the town using the hotels, guest houses, restaurants and pubs. This year over 40 festivals have been cancelled. In our own town, Highest Point and then Vintage have been lost. Like many other festivals in the UK, Sleazy needed help to survive. Unfortunately, that financial help was not forthcoming and Sleazy seemed doomed. But …..
One company recognised the importance of the event to the local community. Ironically that company was in the dreaded land of the White Rose! But this War of the Roses turned out to be a helping hand.
Sleazy has always been here to support live music and all monies raised have always gone to charities. But it has also always championed young adults with learning and physical disabilities, providing them with opportunities to develop skills in the music/entertainment business. To that end they have worked for many years with a Bradford company, SORM STUDIOS Ltd , who have provided PAs and production for the Festival. They are a Social Enterprise company, blending social work with music and creativity to bring people from diverse backgrounds together. Their studios also provide an alternative education programme, offering courses in music, cooking, life skills and other areas. Bradford City Council works closely with them to prepare adults for the workforce and place them in relevant positions. When Sleasy’s team contacted SORM about the possibility of the event being cancelled they were very concerned. The Festival was important for the young people they brought over to work on the production and sound. It had become a very important part of the training development of their young students, both professionally and socially.
SORM also realised how important it was for the local area and local businesses affected. So they kindly offered the sponsorship necessary for the event to take place this year, without even being asked.
The Red Rose always knew it could rely on the White Rose in an emergency!
A massive thank you -- we’ll all dance together at Johnny’s on Morecambe seafront May 23-25th, also thanks must go to Rob Ellershaw from the Exchange in the west end for his continued support of sleazy and its ethos.
(Sorms John Bolton and Tony Saunders meeting Ivan Harrison, also Barry Lucas who's help has been invaluable in providing his knowledge.