Young band’s drummer survives car crash to play Harrogate gig

Ben Reynard was on his way to perform with Summer City at a Charm music night at Major Tom’s Social in Harrogate when his car was in a collision with another car on Cornwall Road.

So bad was the smash that his car was reportedly written off but Ben emerged shaken but intact, as was his drum kit.

Ben insisted the show had to go on and an hour later he was on stage with fellow band members Benji Adams and Kit Parker as part of the trio who won the AMP Awards at the Royal Hall in 2013.

Ben said: “It all happened so quickly I was taken by surprise and left in a bit of a daze. Luckily no one was injured in the crash but both vehicles were written off.

“My immediate thoughts were about missing sound checks and letting everyone down.

“Local bands and promoters are working so hard to build a music scene in Harrogate. Not performing at the concert wasn’t an option!

“Luckily my band mates were able to come and pick up all my gear and get us to the show just in time.

The band, originally from Ripon Grammar School, are one of several local acts scheduled to appear on The Stray at West Park in the ‘Event Village’ this Saturday as part of the Harrogate Big Bike Bash.

Summer City have have just returned from a national tour taking in venues from London to Newcastle.

They’ve also been working in Steel City studios recording their new EP Reprobates for release later this year.