A concert is aiming to bring a bit of light to Laxey flood victims ahead of Christmas.

The Manx Swing Band will perform a concert tonight (Friday) at the Glen Gardens Pavilion in the village in aid of residents who were affected by the flooding that hit Glen Road in October.

Organiser Andrew Smith, who is the chairman of the Garff Flood Action Association, said: ’People are still suffering down there and it has been a traumatic experience for them. Some houses are still in dire states.

’Christmas is coming and with people having moved out of their homes and some not sure they will get insurance cover again, the flooding has created a big financial worry.

’We’re hoping the concert will lift themselves out of the misery for a few hours.’

As this year’s deluge became the third time Mr Smith’s home on Glen Road flooded, he was approached by others for advice.

This led to him and others setting up the association to provide support and ’to continue challenging government’.

’The [flood prevention] work is happening, but at a snail’s pace. I’m struggling to see why it’s taking so slow,’ he added.

’The devastation of this Laxey flood is not going to dissipate overnight.

’There will be long-lasting issues and people will be needing protection against other floods in the future.’

The Big Band Swing Show, in aid of the Laxey Flood Relief Appeal, will include a raffle with prizes donated by a number of individuals and island companies.

Music will be performed by The Great Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Sy Oliver, Glen Miller and others.

Tickets, which are available at Garff Commissioners and Laxey Chemist, cost £10 for adults and £5 for children.

The event will start at 7.30pm and is expected to finish around 10pm.

For more details, search: http://floodaction-garff.org/