MORE than 150 people attended a festival at Robin House last weekend as the event made its return after the pandemic.

Rebecca Rocks was first held in 2017 but didn't take place in either 2020 or 2021 because of Covid.

Staff were delighted to bring the event back to the CHAS site in Balloch on Saturday, September 10.

The festival, held in the gardens of the children's hospice, aims to allow children with life-shortening conditions to experience all the fun of a music festival in a safe and supportive environment.

Eilidh Grant, Robin House's activities co-ordinator, said: “Our Rebecca Rocks festival is such a brilliant event.

“It’s great to see the children and families having fun and rocking out! Music is a fantastic way to bring people together and break down barriers.

“For some of the children attending, this is might be the only time they get to experience what a music festival is like because their illness means they can’t go along to mainstream events.

“At Robin House, we have staff on hand who provide expert support so children and their families can relax, enjoy the music and make precious memories.

“We’re so pleased we were able to hold the festival again during CHAS’s 30th anniversary year, making it even more memorable.”

Dumbarton and Vale of Leven Reporter: Children and their families enjoyed the funChildren and their families enjoyed the fun (Image: CHAS)

A marquee was set up in the gardens of the hospice with the help of volunteers from Morgan Stanley, decorated with balloons, bunting, and paper lanterns.

There was also a bouncy castle from Ally Bally’s, face painting, and plenty of food and treats from Food in the Hood Ltd and Brain’s Ices.

A host of superheroes were in attendance too, including Spider-Man, Wonder Woman, and Batman, courtesy of Central Superheroes.

The characters posed for photographs and brought smiles to the children and young people.

Rebecca Rocks is a charity set up by the parents of two-year-old Rebecca McKeown who died in 2009 after being diagnosed with meningitis, tuberculosis, and fluid on her brain.

The brave tot endured five operations before spending her final hours at Robin House, where her mum Andrea has been working just weeks prior.

Rebecca’s parents, inspired by their daughter’s love of music, wanted to raise funds to ensure the children supported by Robin House and their families have the chance to attend concerts.

To date, the charity has raised over £120,000.

Eilidh added: “We’re so incredibly grateful to Andrea and Alistair from Rebecca Rocks for all their support over the past 13 years.

"They’ve helped hundreds of children and their families go to concerts and experience the joy of live music.”

“Thanks also go to our amazing festival line up, many of whom have performed for free and to all the vendors who provided food, refreshments, entertainment or services for free or at a discounted rate.”