What began as a shared love of ska and soul music has developed into one of Bangor’s largest and most active online communities, and now the group is calling on local people to help take its membership beyond 3,000.

Bangor Ska’N’Soul was created by Mike Williams in February 2022 as a place where people could share music, memories and stories. Nearly five years later, the Facebook group has grown to almost 3,000 members from Bangor, across North Wales and further afield.

While music remains at its heart, the group has become about much more than ska, soul, reggae, Motown and Mod culture. It has created new friendships, reunited old friends and provided a welcoming place for plenty of positive Bangor “moidering”.

The community has also become a force for good in the city, supporting local organisations and helping to raise awareness and funds for worthy causes.

Front and centre is Canolfan Abbey Road, the Bangor-based mental health charity which provides counselling and other vital support. Group members have supported fundraising events and purchased merchandise ranging from badges and stickers to T-shirts and beer mats, with the profits donated to help the centre continue its important work within the community.

Bangor Ska’N’Soul has also supported Bangor Cathedral Foodbank and worked alongside other local organisations, businesses and volunteers to organise events which combine music with a genuine desire to help others.

The group’s influence can increasingly be seen beyond Facebook. It has helped bring live music back into the heart of Bangor, supporting events on the High Street, at Pontio and beside Storiel.

Successful shows have included performances by Badness and Darrell Smith and the Soul Brothers Syndicate, while free community events such as Ska in the Park have brought people of all ages together to enjoy music in the city centre.

The group has become a place where people can discover upcoming events, share photographs and memories of Bangor, discuss their favourite records and enjoy the friendly sense of belonging which has developed among its members.

With the 3,000-member milestone now within touching distance, existing members are being encouraged to invite friends and family who share an interest in music, Bangor or simply being part of a positive local community.

You don’t have to be an expert on ska or soul to join. Whether you love the music, remember Bangor’s clubs and venues of years gone by, want to know about upcoming events or just enjoy a good moider, everyone is welcome.

Help Bangor Ska’N’Soul reach 3,000 members and become part of a community that continues to bring people together, support local causes and put a little more soul into Bangor.

Join Bangor Ska’N’Soul on Facebook.