Funnyman nominated

Kevin has ‘singlehandedly kept the community going’

HE dressed as Donald Trump, a belly dancer, and more besides – whatever it took to give folk a laugh during lockdown, Kevin McGregor did it.

And now, thanks to his efforts, the 49-year-old janitor from Lochee has been nominated in the entertainment category for the Tele Community Champion Awards.

“I’m shocked!” he said. “There are so many other people out there more deserving of this than me.”

Kevin, a keen golfer, started out by presenting – in outlandish costumes – virtual tours of iconic golf courses with his own unique commentary.

As his audience grew – to as far away as Spain – he raised £800 for Lochee Larder and £1,000 for St Mary’s Church by holding virtual race nights.

He then moved into bingo, delivering cards through every door of his street for a session following Thursday Clap for Carers events.

“They were great, it just got bigger and bigger,” said Kevin, from Merton Avenue. “It just brought everybody together. We had neighbours speaking to each other, some for the first time.”

Kevin, a janitor based in Menzieshill, was inspired by friend and colleague Jim Young who has launched his own virtual “Jim the Janny” bar from his home.

Kevin said: “I saw what Jim was doing and thought I could do something too. My alter ego Katherine frequently comes out, but I’ve also been a belly dancer, a punk rocker and a traditional Irishman.”

When Kevin featured in the Tele in May, neighbour Trixie Findlay said: “Kevin is doing a great job. Thanks to him we’re getting a daily dose of laughter and fun.”

Kevin was nominated by Pauline Christie, who said that describing him as a character was something of “an understatement”.

She said: “He has singlehandedly managed to keep folk in the community going through lockdown. He’s one of those people who loves to give anyone a laugh, and thoroughly deserves to be nominated for this award.”

Kevin McGregor in his belly dancer outfit.