A beloved Lanarkshire landmark will once again become a community hub if a local DJ has his way.
Barry Harrison – who uses the moniker Ion Fenix – believes that the Overtoun Park bandstand should be restored to its former glory.
He's hoping to hold a celebratory event there next year, offering entertainment all day, from bands and DJs to magicians and comedians.
And the 42-year-old is now seeking support from the Rutherglen community to make it happen.
He told Lanarkshire Live: "I started thinking about it in the early stages of lockdown.
"I'm very hands on and love Rutherglen, and I was thinking that after everything was over, it would be great to have a community event in the area, something that would leave people with smiles on their faces.
"Obviously the length of the lockdown has delayed that, so the May bank holiday next year is what I'm looking at.
"I'm thinking of an all day event, with something for everyone, from bands to magicians to jazz musicians, and free entry, so that it's really something that everyone can enjoy."
Before this however, Barry would love to see the bandstand spruced up.
Responsibility for the bandstand lies with South Lanarkshire Council, and was previously considered enough of a landmark that it was loaned to Stoke On Trent for its garden festival in 1986, and then to the famous Glasgow Garden Festival in 1988.
However, in recent years it has fallen into disrepair, and has been a magnet for graffiti and vandalism.
Barry added: " Overtoun Park is lovely and if you look at the history of the bandstand then it's a part of Rutherglen's heritage.
"We want this to be restored to its former glory and be something that's free for the community. It could be something really special again.
"A lot of people have already been in touch on Facebook about it and what they could contribute. I know any sort of refurbishment would take thousands of pounds, but people power can get things done – and I know people in Rutherglen are interested in this.
Residents have previously campaigned to restore the bandstand, most recently in 2015.
However no progress was made and the bandstand remains damaged, particularly with guttering either missing or damaged, and paint peeling off.
Alistair McKinnon, head of facilities, waste and grounds services at South Lanarkshire Council, said: “If Mr Harrison wishes to approach the council, we will be happy to discuss the matter with him.”
Anyone interested in Barry's plans should visit the Facebook page here for more details on the proposed gig.
*Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here.
And did you know Lanarkshire Live had its own app? Download yours for free here.
