Roly GillardWAKE OF THE TSUNAMI: FUNNYMAN Roly Gillard doesn't want to see any serious faces at our charity gig on Friday. The Advertiser has signed up some of the biggest names in local music to stage the one-off bash.

All those involved are giving their services free and proceeds will go to the Disasters Emergency Committee, which is co-ordinating relief efforts in the disaster-struck countries.

Roly, a member of the Monster Raving Loony Party, has volunteered to be compere.

And the extrovert famed for his outrageous clothes warns that he'll pick on anyone not having fun.

"It is a very difficult and sad time but this event is about having fun to help the survivors of this terrible tragedy," said Roly.

"As always, I shall be wearing totally inappropriate clothing perhaps even my special pantomime bloomers and cracking a few gags along the way."

Roly admitted to feeling helpless when he saw the scenes of devastation on his television.

But he says that being involved in this gig has made him feel a lot better.

"I can't be the only one who felt utterly helpless when I watched the tragedy unfold on television," he said.

"But when the Adver approached me I realised that everyone can play a role in relieving some of the suffering."

Roly, who runs The Little Print Shop in Swindon's tented market, reckons at least £1,000 can be raised.

But he stressed that this depends on YOU.

"No audience equals no gig and no gig equals no money for the survivors it really is as simple as that," he said.

"I would urge people to get themselves and their wallets along to this very worthwhile event."

Swindon firm Audio Msg has loaned a PA system for the occasion and the Goddard Arms Hotel has given the ballroom for free.

THE gig starts at 7.30pm. The venue is the Goddard Arms in Cricklade Street where tickets are on sale. Tickets are also £6 on the door or £5 in advance from the Evening Advertiser offices in Victoria Road. Numbers are limited so get them quick.

Stars line up for gig

Locomotion; Greasy Gravy Blues Band; Nova; Paul Griffiths; Kit Hawes; Anish and Jimmy; Mister Love and Justice; Rob Beckinsale

Kevin Shoesmith