Ref. 75609-110STARS who took part in our special gig for survivors of the tsunami disaster have paid tribute to Evening Advertiser readers for making it such a huge success.

The Goddard Arms Hotel in Old Town was packed on Friday night with people all eager to do their bit for the relief effort.

A total of £1,578 was raised by the sell-out event.

Everyone involved from the backstage crew to the musicians themselves gave their time and talent for free.

And they didn't disappoint.

Every act earned a rapturous round of applause from the audience and it wasn't long before people were out of their seats and on the dance floor.

Roly Gillard, who kept the audience amused with jokes and light-hearted banter, said the music feast far-exceeded his expectations.

"The place was alive a real party atmosphere," he said. "And I don't think it would be inaccurate to say that every single person had a great time."

Roly started the evening off on a high note by stating that while the politicians talked about freezing debt repayment and sending aid to the stricken countries, Adver readers were getting on with raising money.

He said: "After the introduction, it very quickly turned into a party.

"I think a lot of people felt helpless on Boxing Day but thanks to this event they now feel like they have done something practical to help the survivors."

Mark Gowland, a blues harmonica player guitarist with the band, Greasy Gravy Blues, said it was one of the best gigs he's performed at.

"It was absolutely fantastic," he said. "I was extremely proud to be part of it.

"Although there was a tragic note to the occasion we all had fun and did something positive. Everyone threw themselves into the spirit of it.

"It was just great to see the place so packed. I always tend to judge a crowd on how busy the bar was it was seven deep."

Evening Advertiser editor Mark Waldron said after the gig: "The continuing generosity of the people of Swindon never ceases to amaze.

"I was initially overwhelmed by the response from the bands, the backstage people and the Goddard Arms Hotel, who all gave their time for free.

"But the amount of people who turned up and then dug deep again for the raffle and collection boxes was just incredible."

Kevin Shoesmith