Dawlish hosts music and dance fundraiser.

Dawlish Leisure Centre is set to rock to the sounds of swing when one of the South West's biggest bands comes to town.

 

The Teignbridge District Council-owned leisure centre is putting on a charity concert featuring AJ Big Band on Saturday 6 April from 7.30pm.

 

The event – the first of its kind for the leisure centre in eight years – will help raise money for Devon Air Ambulance Trust and it marks a return to the leisure centre for the band.

 

People are being encouraged to slip on their dancing shoes and make it a fun night out to remember.

 

The evening will feature a packed programme of swing classics. The 17 piece band is now into its 30th year and continues to thrill audiences with its range of instrumentals and songs from the golden age of the big band. Complimenting the line-up is songstress Paula Mitchell. This is being billed as an unmissable evening of music and dance.

 

Throughout the evening there will be an opportunity to buy raffle tickets for a great selection of prizes and all proceeds will be donated to the Devon Air Ambulance Trust, the charity of the year for Council Chairman Cllr Chris Clarance.

 

Dawlish Leisure Centre has a history of putting on musical events. In 2003 it hosted an RSC performance and over the years acts have included AJ's Big Band and poet Pam Ayres. As well as offering swimming, fitness classes and having an onsite cafe the centre has enough room to hold big events like markets and concerts. 

 

This new event brings back that tradition and it is hoped, if it is a success, more can be held in the future.

 

Cllr George Gribble, Teignbridge District Council's Executive Spokesperson for Communities, Recreation and Leisure, said:

 

"We were really pleased with the success of the recent indoor market and we hope to build on this by offering something slightly different to residents and those who come to the leisure centre for its swimming and sport offerings.

 

"It's great that the team are willing to try new things that will give residents more choice. A night of music is a great way to let your hair down so we would encourage as many people as possible to set aside the evening, book tickets and go along."

 

The team at Dawlish Leisure Centre came up with the idea of concert as a way of attracting new customers, generating more income for the centre and giving residents more choice in leisure, sport and entertainment.

 

Cllr Clarance said:

 

"We always try to provide top quality leisure facilities at all our centres and there is no reason why we can't try to provide the same in entertainment! The added bonus is that this event raises money for Devon Air Ambulance which is a very worthwhile cause.

 

"I really hope local residents get behind this event and support it. I am sure it will be a great night – and I'd encourage everyone to dig deep into their pockets to raise money for Devon Air Ambulance Trust."

 

AJ's Big Band will be playing from 7.30pm until 10.30pm with an interval. An area is to be set aside from the seating and the bar will be provided refreshments.

 

Tickets cost £12.50. Tickets are expected to sell quickly so people are being urged to take advantage of the discount offer and book now.

 

To buy tickets call or visit Dawlish Leisure Centre, Sandy Lane, Dawlish EX7 0AF. Phone 01626 215637, email: dawlishlc@teignbridge.gov.uk or phone Newton Abbot Tourist Information Centre on 01626 215667.