Council chief helps pump up the volume

6:32pm Sunday 1st June 2008

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A STELLAR line-up of Swindon talent took to the stage to raise money for a much-loved music venue.

The Bowl Benefit gig on Saturday, which raised more than £1,000 to maintain the Town Gardens Bowl, was headlined by up-and-coming local band, the Beatbullyz.

Audiences were also treated to the debut performance of Aeshna, whose line-up includes Swindon Council chief executive Gavin Jones.

He turned the amps up to 11 for a set of self-penned tunes and covers.

Aeshna are fronted by vocalist Mel Hughes, and Gavin was keen to sing her praises.

"She's got a fantastic voice, we're very lucky to have her," he said.

Gavin also paid tribute to the quality of the other acts on the show.

He said: "It's really great to see so many good bands - there are a lot of people from the council performing and some really good local talent as well."

Council leader Rod Bluh agreed, saying he was constantly impressed at the wealth of talent in Swindon.

Coun Bluh cited Stevie Maull, winner of Swindon Pride Idol, as one to watch.

He said: "He's got a great voice and he's been writing songs since he was 13.

"It's great to have talent like Stevie and the other acts playing at this wonderful venue.

"It's a shame that the people who knock Swindon don't take the time to actually look around the place.

"This is a beautiful venue and that's why we're here to support it."

An array of talent from the council proved that it's not just the chief executive who can let his hair down.

The Edge, made up of members of the council's parks and rangers team, played a mixture of covers and original material.

There was also a display of dance, featuring head of culture, Helen Miah.

But it was the Beatbullyz who really got the crowd on their feet, with an energetic and polished performance of hits from their album, Rootz.

Performing without their drummer, the trio used a backing track as well as performing acoustic versions of their ska and hip-hop influenced hits.

As the sun set over the iconic, 1930s-built bowl, the crowd were still calling for more.

"It was great," said 23-year-old Teresa McGuire, from Old Town. "All the bands were good but I especially enjoyed the Beatbullyz."

Alex Platt, 22, from Purton, said: "It's a good spot for a concert - I just wish they could go on for longer."