Aberdeen band The Xcerts have stepped in to try and save the live music venue where they made their name.
The group said they want to give back to The Lemon Tree, describing it as the “heartbeat of the Aberdeen music scene”, after spending their formative years playing gigs there.
The live music scene is struggling to cope with the effects of lockdown, and venues across the UK are engaged in a fight for survival after four months without income.
To try and save The Lemon Tree on the city’s West North Street, The Xcerts are raffling off rare memorabilia, with all proceeds going to the venue.
A spokesman for the band said: “The music industry is currently on its knees and in dire need of support.
“Backing from the government has been exhausted, so the responsibility to keep venues alive for when we are eventually allowed back in is on artists, music fans, local communities and the wider industry.
“Without these venues, opportunities for artists and audiences to connect in a meaningful way at a local level will simply disappear, which I think we can all agree is a heartbreaking thought.
“We spent our formative years in The Lemon Tree and have played many memorable shows there.
“We are desperate to help in any way we can.
“We urge everyone to do their bit, make some noise, raise some money and support an incredible venue and cultural hub that has been the heartbeat of the Aberdeen music scene for nearly 30 years.”
To take part in the raffle, people can visit www.raffall.com/thexcerts