Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Get involved, that’s the Spirit!
One of the best aspects of working in the entertainment industry is the way performers always lend a helping hand to support charities in their community and further afield.
You just had to watch 10 minutes of BBC’s Red Nose Day to see it was all hands on deck as comedians, singers, actors and musicians threw their energy into supporting the worthy cause.
I have been fortunate enough to be involved for more than 14 years with a wonderful children’s charity called Spirit Aid.
It was set up by legendary Scottish actor David Hayman, of Jimmy Boyle and Weir’s Way fame – two very different characters which give a glimpse of his versatility! Indeed, over the last 14 years a procession of actors, comedians and musicians have in some way tread the boards to contribute to Spirit Aid, myself included.
I remember one gig in particular where I was met with nothing but stoney silence for 20 minutes – it felt like four hours – only to have Taggart star Colin McCredie break the awkwardness by proclaiming: “There’s been a murder”! Yes, it was that bad.
However, at least I could tell myself it was for a good cause.
As some of you may have noticed, my short spell in River City was called to a halt fairly early on.
This was mainly due to a lack of acting ability, despite me being the perfect aspect ratio for widescreen TV.
But during that short time on the Shieldinch set I managed to press-gang a number of the cast into supporting Spirit Aid by taking part in next month’s Kiltwalk.
And earlier this week I enjoyed a great night out at Motherwell Theatre watching showbiz legend Brian Conley, and I was delighted when he too lent his support to Spirit Aid’s Kiltwalk.
I’ve even managed to convince the Advertiser’s editor Graham Miller to participate in this year’s event.
And now I’d like to extend an invitation to readers of this column to join us on April 30 and help support Scottish children.
And there’s no need to worry about a fast pace – if I’m confident of completing the course you should be too.
For more details on this year’s Kiltwalk event, email me on patrick@spiritaid.org.