THE recent Apollo Big Band concert at Queen Mary’s College was a huge success.

Basingstoke Lions Club were the hosts of the concert, which was the final event of the 2014 Variety for Charity programme.

The Lions have been able to donate £1,000 to the Basingstoke Multiple Sclerosis Society and the society’s representative Kevin O’Donnell was delighted to receive a cheque from Lions vice president Ann Vicars and concert organiser Maurice Hockley.

Maurice said: “The success of the event was a real tribute to the growing, and very much deserved popularity of the Apollo Big Band that more tickets for their show were sold this time than for their last visit two years ago.

“There was plenty to enjoy. The first half was full of the music associated with Michael Buble, Cole Porter and Glenn Miller.

“The second half took a more romantic turn with Son of a Preacher Man, Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps, The Very Thought of You, I’ve Got You Under My Skin and Love for Sale.

“The mood and the beat were turned up with It Don’t Mean A Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing). It was a beautifully crafted and entertaining programme.”