A SPECIAL fundraising gig for a Colchester teacher is taking place in Great Tey this weekend.

Yvette Barlow, a special needs teacher who worked in Colchester and Mersea, died from breast cancer two years ago.

Last year her brother Simon Rownes decided to organise a concert in her memory while raising money for charity.

“Yvette was a wonderful, intelligent, kind and caring person who loved children and teaching,” he says.

“I suppose we wanted something good to come out of something that was so tragic, remembering her, but at the same time raising money for a good cause.

“This is the second Blues Brothers event we have put on for cancer research. The previous one was in Kelvedon and raised more than £1,200 for cancer research. We would dearly like to better that figure this time.”

With one of the best tribute bands in the business, they’re off to a good start.

The 11-piece Blues Brothers Experience Show Band is widely held to be the most authentic live tribute to Jake and Elwood Blues and their band.

The band has played all over Europe and as far afield as Russia and is lined-up for the main-stage at this year’s Tribfest, the world’s largest Tribute Festival.

In addition to Jake and Elwood and their live show band with a full brass section, the entertainment will also include a singer performing hits made famous by Aretha Franklin and Lulu.

As well as the music, there will be food and drink available, including cocktails expertly mixed by Yvette’s son Rory.

Blues Brothers Experience Show Band
Great Tey Village Hall, Chappel Road, Great Tey. Saturday. Doors open at 7.30pm. £12, £8 concessions.
 07411983889.
www.wegottickets.com/event/231010