The sound of swing could be heard throughout the gardens at Hillier Gardens and Arboretum when the Rotary Club of Southampton West organised a Big Band concert in aid of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.

The evening of June 10 stayed dry and warm as the audience picnicked on the lawns, some dancing the night away, listening to the sound of Lucien de-Laloi King of Swing' singing on the restaurant terrace.

This was followed by the Big Band sounds of Centre 17' from Salisbury playing familiar tunes including, Black Velvet, Slipping Away, Engine No 23, along with a great rendition by the female vocalist of Fever, Cry Me, and Mr Zoot, all rapturously received by the audience.

Over £1,600 was raised for the Air Ambulance and their representative, Maggie Gwynne, took the opportunity to tell the audience that the ambulance will be taking to the air in the next few weeks.