A CONCERT is being held to raise funds for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance in memory of a man who died last year.

The grandchildren of Gerald Long are organising and taking part in the concert which will feature some of the most talented musicians from across the UK.

The family are showing their gratitude to the charity after its “valiant efforts” to save Mr Long, 84, who died after being airlifted to hospital following a collision on the A65 in September.

James, Sarah, Sophie and Chloe Long have been fundraising for the air ambulance since their grandfather’s death.

And now they will appear onstage in the concert at Yeadon Town Hall on Saturday, March 2, alongside musicians from their circle of friends.

Songbook will be a celebration of Mr Long’s particular favourites including George Gershwin, Ivor Novello, Cole Porter and Jerome Kern.

Ticket sales are already going well but the family say achieving a full house would be their greatest reward.

The event will start at 7.30pm. Doors open at 6.30pm. Tickets cost £12 or £10 for concessions and can be obtained from www.ticketsource by searching ‘Songbook’ or by calling 0333 666 33 66.

When they launched their fundraising last year the four grandchildren said: “We are raising money for Yorkshire Air Ambulance Charity because they looked after our Grandad in his final hours.”

Mr Long, described by friends as “a perfect gentleman” was well known in Aireborough where he was a member of a number of groups and organisations.