A charity concert which proved a hit last year will return to the Villa Marina in July, with support from the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company.

Acclaimed tribute performers ABBA Reunion delighted an audience of more than 600 people with renditions of some of the biggest disco hits of the 1970s and 1980s last time they visited. They were so popular organiser Marc Lowey has arranged a return trip.

Last year’s show raised ?5,500 for South Douglas Old Friends Association, which will also benefit from the concert in July. Once again, the Steam Packet Company is helping by assisting with the group’s travel.

Tickets for the show, which is on 23rd July, are available now from the Welcome Centre at the Sea Terminal in Douglas.

The evening will start with a performance by Ian Thompson before ABBA Reunion bring the classic songs of the legendary Swedish group to the stage. Afterwards there will be a disco for people aged 18 and over only, where Legislative Council member and former MHK David Cretney will DJ.

Organiser Marc Lowey said: ‘Last year ABBA Reunion put on a great show which everyone really enjoyed, and the evening raised a huge amount for the charity. It was so popular we simply had to arrange for the group to return, and I’m sure everyone will be looking forward to recapturing that fantastic party atmosphere again in July, as well as raising money for South Douglas Old Friends Association.

‘I’m so grateful for the ongoing assistance of the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company, as well as all our other sponsors including Jaks Bar and Steak House, 3FM, Raymonds B&B and Cannell Print. This show is only possible because of their tremendous support.’

Steam Packet Company Chief Executive Mark Woodward added: ‘Last year’s show raised a wonderful amount for the charity as well as giving everyone who went along a brilliant night out. I hope this year’s concert is even more successful, and we are pleased to be able to help again.’