CHRISTMAS carols will help raise money to remember Brixham's lost fisherman.

Proceeds from the 23rd annual Torbay Civic Carol Concert on December 15 will this year be spilt between a £150,000 fundraiser for a bronze memorial on Brixham harbourside and armed forces charity Help The Heroes.

Fisherman James Grindy, who died on November 6 after falling overboard while fishing in the Channel, is the 19th seaman to be honoured by the statue to be called The Storm.

Bay civic chairman Martyn Hodge said: "We are one of the biggest fishing ports in Europe and yet we have never had a memorial for those who have lost their lives by trying to put food on the table.

"I am hoping that we can raise the money for the fisherman as a poignant spot for families to lay flowers at anniversaries or birthdays or to remember good times gone by."

The fund has recently benefited from £2,000 after an auction by Brixham fisherman.

It is hoped that carollers will come out in force to support this year's concert at the English Riviera International Centre.

Organiser David Wilkinson, chairman of Torbay Brass Band, said: "This year Leon Winston returns to compere the event, Herald Express columnist Brian Carter will be there along with Ellacombe Junior School performing arts group.

"Street Beat, a young dance group, will be making their first appearance at the event.

"We are also very pleased to welcome the Torbay Police Choir and Torbay Brass Band will also be there bringing their support to the evening."

There will be a chance to enjoy a mince pie and a drink in the interval.

David added: "It will be an excellent evening of entertainment, plus people can help two great charities which is why we want as many people to buy tickets."

Tickets are £3 which can be purchased from the Box Office on 01803 206333.

Quoted from the Herald Express; 5/12/09