My Community Series: Meet the singing strummers bringing festive cheer to Jersey

When you think about Christmas - the cold weather and carol singers - the ukulele isn't something that instantly comes to mind.

But for this group of strummers in Jersey, the instrument is very much a key part of their Christmas celebrations.

The Jersey Ukulele Club meets once a week to practice an array of tunes, and in the run-up to the big day, they swap to some traditional carols.

The club have been playing together for years. Credit: ITV Channel

The group also raises money for local causes, giving back to the community and helping charities close to members' hearts.

So far this year, the club has raised more than £7,000 for Motor Neurone Disease Jersey by busking on King Street.

Organiser Stuart Collis says: "This club is all about playing ukuleles and having some fun.

"At the same time, we get to raise some money for amazing charities.

"The best thing about the club is that we manage to [fundraise] at the same time as having fun."

In the spirit of Christmas, I gave a song ago - despite having not a single musical bone in my body. Credit: ITV Channel

However, the good doesn't stop at fundraising. The club also helps its members when they're going through a tough time.

Maureen Munro has been playing for several years with the group and says: "It's just a great therapy, so even if you've had a busy day, you come here and you just play a few tunes, have a laugh and you just forget your busy work day and just switch off."

And for Lorraine Cahoon, the club's reputation is what led her to join.

She explains: "Well, you can let your free spirit rise. You can let your hair down, do what you want to do, have a sing, have fun."

Members told ITV News that the group helps them and gives them a community to help them through tougher times. Credit: ITV Channel

The club is welcome to all - no matter the person's experience or ability. Organisers say anyone can learn how to play.

Les adds: "Everything is daunting at first.

"If I can start with three chords - which I didn't know - and then come to run the Jersey Ukulele Club, anybody can do this.

"It is not difficult, it's just a matter of practice."

You might recognise the group from their fluorescent shirts. Credit: ITV Channel

I went to film and interview Jersey's Ukulele Club members as part of ITV Channel's 'My Community Series' which celebrates the importance of coming together.

It can be a cookery class, a sports session, friends meeting up and much more. fdsfds gg

To share what community means to you, send an email with the subject 'My Community' to channelnews@itv.com with a few details about what you do and why it is so special so we can come along and hear all about it.

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