GILL ELTON: Come and enjoy a fantastic musical evening

Each year it is held at Hayling Island Community Centre, in Station Road.

The concert, which features Major Pete Curtis and the Band of the Hampshire Constabulary, has become a very poplar event on Hayling Island.

I have even had people from the audience saying it is their start to the Christmas season.

Unfortunately this year I thought I would have to cancel it due to a bout of ill health. But when I rang the community centre to do so, Tania Jones, the office manager, and Tina Lambert, the office administrator, offered to run the evening for me.

I was so pleased that it could still go ahead as it has always been an important part of the year.

It also meant I could still be involved with the administration.

So this year, to show appreciation to the centre and staff, I’ll be raising funds towards the community centre extension.

It will add to the grant from Reaching Communities Buildings Big Lottery Fund.

The centre had to commit to raising its share and have so far raised a staggering £90,000.

The extension will contain a cafe area downstairs, with a lift and stairs to the first floor where there will be a large space with acoustic room dividers which will allow it to be one large or two to three smaller rooms as required.

The community centre is the hub of the Hayling Island community and it will be great to give something back.

So, come and enjoy a fantastic evening with the band.

The concert always involves some fun audience participation, especially in the proms section.

The event is on November 26 at 7.30pm. Pick up tickets from the community centre.