A message from Andy Rance:
“For years, I’ve been joking, ‘I’m getting old.’ Well, the truth is… I *am* old now! 
But honestly, I wouldn’t change a thing.
For 35 incredible years (most of my hair, and a few sleepless nights!), I’ve poured my heart into Livewire Youth Music. It’s been a journey filled with laughter, tears, heartbreak, and pure joy. I’ve met so many amazing young people – too many to count – who’ve inspired and sometimes *saved* me in ways I can’t put into words.
To me, Livewire isn’t just a project; it’s a family and I’ve always believed I’d be carried out in a box, doing what I love until I simply couldn’t anymore. But here’s the truth: age and health are catching up with me. The fundraising efforts that once kept me awake till 3am, the weekends spent filling applications – I reckon I’ve raised over a couple of million pounds over the years – yet it is becoming harder.
Julie’s health has also taken a toll, and I’ve taken on more responsibilities, balancing my work at Livewire with being her carer.
Julie has had to step back from youth work after 20 years, which has been hard for her! She remains at Livewire as office manager. It’s a lot. But my passion for youth work, for supporting those brave, creative, inspiring young people, remains as strong as ever. Honestly, they’ve *saved* me more times than I can count, putting the wind in my sails when I needed it most.
So, where does that leave us? Well, I’m excited to share that we’re taking a huge step forward. To ensure Livewire’s legacy continues long after I’m gone, we’ve brought on an apprentice youth work lead – someone to learn from me over the next few years and carry the torch.
And I want you all to meet someone very special – Joe Day. I’ve known Joe since he was about 13, watched him grow into an incredible man, and had the privilege of being part of his journey. Now 27, I’ve worked with him through good and bad times, and I couldn’t be more proud to pass the baton to him.
Joe, this is just the beginning of a new chapter. The future of Livewire is bright, and I couldn’t be more hopeful.
Thank you all for your support, love, and belief in what we do. Here’s to the next generation, to legacy, and to keeping the fire alive. – Andy Rance
