Billy Connolly benefit to aid flood victims

BILLY Connolly is to perform a benefit concert for victims of the Australian floods.

The Scots comedian said he was heartbroken by the tragic stories of those affected by the devastation in Queensland and wanted to do something to show his support.

He is touring the country and although all his shows are sold out, he has agreed to perform a fundraiser in Brisbane on 13 February with all proceeds going to the Disaster Relief Fund.

Heavy rains that began in November have caused massive flooding across Australia, killing 35 people and damaging or destroying 30,000 homes and businesses.

Connolly, 68, has rejected approaches to visit the victims. He said: "I find that kind of patronising. Walking around with my hands behind my back like the Duke of Edinburgh.

"I wanted to do what I do. Perform on stage. Offer support that way. I hope it will go some way to helping parents and children start to rebuild their lives at this extremely challenging time."

Connolly said he had been deeply moved by the story of ten-year-old Blake Rice, who was plucked to safety from his family's car only to watch his mother Donna and 13-year-old brother Jordan being swept to their deaths.