A FORMER Swindon councillor has put together an evening of entertainment on Saturday to raise funds for victims of the Ebola epidemic.

Ellen Heavens , who left Liberia 20 years ago for the Netherlands, before moving to Swindon, has been co-ordinating efforts as chairman of Swindon’s African Women’s Support Group.

Since the Ebola epidemic broke out she has been working hard to raise awareness of the problems faced by communities in West Africa.

Ellen says she wants to give donors something back for their money, and has organised a dinner and dance evening which will include a fashion show, drummers, guest speakers and singers.

Among the guests will be Carol Jiani, most famous for the song, Hit ’n’ Run Lover, which reached number four in the US charts in 1981.

“We don’t just want to go around and take money for free from people,” said Ellen.

“This entertainment is giving them something back for that. We want to make their money worthwhile with the food and entertainment.

“If I could raise £10,000 that would be huge. That’s a dream.”

The event is called Swindon West African Ebola Aid, with support from World Women and Youth Organisation of Swindon and Union of Liberian Organisations UK.

Doors at the Gudwara Punjabi Community Centre, in Kembrey Street, will open at 3pm, with entertainment running until late.

Money raised will be sent to a clinic in Liberia, which is providing care for children affected by the crisis. It is in need of food, clothing and medical supplies, and donations will go some way to supporting.

Ellen has guaranteed photographs from the country of initiatives the money given by Swindon people is used to support.

More people need to come forward though.

“From the people of Swindon there hasn’t been much so far,” said Ellen. “I can say a lot of people have expressed enthusiasm for the event, but we still need donations and tickets to be bought.

“Every little bit will help and this is something you should do.”

Tickets are £20 in advance and £25 on the door, with a buffet included and a bar service and are available on 01793 978607.