Tom Jackson puts on impromptu concert for snowed-in travellers in Manitoba

Virden Mayor Jeff McConnell said people were excited to hear that Jackson — best known as an actor on the TV show “North of 60” — was in the community. Word spread quickly that the founder of the Huron Carole concerts was going to appear at the local emergency shelter and was inviting musicians to join him.

With area hotels fully booked, about 60 people were staying in the shelter.

McConnell said Brandon’s loss was Virden’s gain. About 200 people braved the snow to hear Jackson and his group.

“Understand that, in order to get there, they’re driving through some fairly significant drifting,” he said. “Small cars should not be travelling on our streets in town.”

The evening concert ended with Jackson leading the crowd in a rendition of “Silent Night” as he shook hands with members of the audience.

McConnell said people are grateful to Jackson and his group for lifting spirits while they waited out the snow.

“We cannot thank them enough for offering their talents,” he said. “I have to say, it’s probably part of the reason why a number of the people who are staying in our facility without really wanting to are not complaining.”

The Trans-Canada Highway reopened Wednesday afternoon around 2 p.m. local time from Headingley to the Saskatchewan boundary. Storm warnings were replaced with blowing snow advisories in Manitoba and more snow was expected.

Virden RCMP say there were more than 200 stranded motorists, including a five-kilometre line of parked semi trucks.

“Through challenging conditions, officers attempted to speak with every driver stranded on the highway last night. This morning, Virden RCMP and members of the volunteer fire department went to each vehicle to check on motorists and to provide food and water. Urgent medication, such as insulin, was also taken to motorists,” RCMP said in a release.

RCMP Cpl. Matt Hipwell said officers and fire department workers faced many challenges working in blizzard conditions.

“Our community really came together to help those in need.”

In addition to the vehicle checks, a diesel delivery truck was sent out Wednesday afternoon to help semi drivers low on fuel and a bus was

— By Chinta Puxley in Edmonton

The Canadian Press

by Canadian Press

Tom Jackson puts on impromptu concert for snowed-in travellers in Manitoba

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