Phil McAllister who is organising the sound at the Adver's tsumani concert : 75559-14WAKE OF THE TSUNAMI: WHILE Buddhist monks pray for the suvivors of the tsunami on the beaches of Thailand, Swindon musicians prepare to play to raise money for the relief effort.

Eight big names are booked to perform in tomorrow's charity gig at the Goddard Arms Hotel and all those involved are giving up their time for free to help those who survived the disaster.

Manager Steve Goulding expects the place to be rocking come 7.30pm.

"This gig is a great idea," he said.

"We are delighted to be working alongside the Adver to help those affected by this tragedy.

"The television set here has been permanently tuned to the news channels and even now there are stories emerging from South East Asia that really pull on the heart strings.

"This will be the place to be tomorrow night."

Friends Phil McAllister, Rob Beckinsale and Steve Cox are helping to organise the music feast.

And they're determined to do their bit.

Mr McAllister, who has volunteered his services as the sound engineer, admits Swindon's response to the tragedy took him by surprise.

He said: "It's been amazing. Something terrible has happened and the Evening Advertiser has taken the initiative. It shows just what Swindon can do when it puts its mind to it.

"In the space of a week we have signed up eight bands, secured a venue and obtained a sound system. A number of Swindon businesses have also got involved. It's touching."

Mr McAalister a former technician at Wyvern Theatre paid special thanks to Audio Msg, which donated the PA system.

He said: "They deserve a mention. They are a new firm and they have been absolutely brilliant from the word go."

"I also want to thank Natiowide for giving me time off to organise the sound system."

Funnyman Roly Gillard, famed for his outrageous dress sense, will be the compere.

The musical line-up is: Locomotion; Greasy Gravy Blues Band; Nova; Paul Griffiths; Kit Hawes; Anish and Jimmy; Mister Love and Justice and Rob Beckin-sale. who will be joined by Paul Henry, currently on tour with the musical Lonnie Donnegan, featuring the skiffle king's sons.

Tickets are £6 on the door or £5 in advance from the Evening Advertiser offices in Victoria Road or the Goddard Arms in Cricklade Street. Numbers are strictly limited so get in quick.

Kevin Shoesmith