White Lion pub community project in Streatham calls for volunteers (From This Is Local London)

White Lion pub community project in Streatham calls for volunteers

7:30am Sunday 5th September 2010 in

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A community project setting up in a Streatham pub is calling for more volunteers and donations on its first anniversary.

Oz Bayldon, 38, took over the dilapidated White Lion pub a year ago, with the intention of turning it into a top music venue, hostel and community space.

The profits would go to his charity Music4children, which aims to provide educational opportunities for children in Streatham.

A workshop space, recording studio, rehearsal space and garden that can all be be used by schools and voluntary groups are all planned for the pub.

But a year on Mr Bayldon, who has turned a number of pubs into successful music venues, still needs volunteers to provide much-needed elbow grease, or tradesmen to donate a few hours of their time, to put the finishing touches to the project.

American Express workers were lending a hand last week, alongside the Streatham Guardian editorial team.

The former music promoter from Mitcham hopes the workshop facilities could be open within four weeks, but he is still looking for people to donate any musical instruments, cameras and computers.

He is also looking for people to run courses.

He said: “We are delighted with how far the project has come, as we have relied purely on volunteers.

“We want it to be something built purely by the community, that doesn’t need to rely on Government grants.”

“Anything people can offer will be greatly appreciated.”

Mr Bayldon is staging a gig at the pub on September 4, to mark the project’s first anniversary.

Mike Strutter, the latest controversial character created by Dennis Pennis comedian Paul Kaye, will the performing with his band.

He is joined on the bill by up-and-coming band the Razzle, who shot their new video in the pub.

To donate or get involved email oz@music4children.org.