Hitting the right note to raise funds for hospices

A FUND-RAISING band has finalised details of a concert which will collect vital cash for two local hospices.

Mid-Life Crisis (MLC) will return to Shaw’s Playhouse 2 Theatre on March 20 (8pm) in aid of Dr Kershaw’s and Springhill hospices.

A successful concert at the venue last year saw the group wow a sell-out audience to raise £1,600 for the two charities.

The band performs pop and rock from the last six decades and will be joined on the night by a special guest, local singer and keyboard player Sarah Turner.

Band member Bernie Allen, from Shaw, who performs guitar and vocals, said: “We are quite well known now within the local charitable community and subsequently are asked to perform for various good causes, usually playing about once every six weeks or so.

“We are really pleased to be back at the Playhouse 2 again this year.

“It’s a great venue and deserves support from the local community.

“The ticket sales are going well and we hope to once again have the full house we enjoyed last year.”

Since forming in 2001, MLC have evolved into a five-piece band also consisting of bass player Michael Turner, from Oldham, drummer Pete O’Connor, from Bury, guitarist Alan Humphries, from Dobcross, and keyboard player Phil Horrocks, from Shaw.

They all perform vocals as well.

They always give their services for free to raise money for worthy causes – even though it usually costs them to play.

The band have raised around £25,000 since first performing and last year received a prestigious honour - The BT Chairman’s Award - in recognition of their achievements and community ethos.

Tickets costing £10 are available from “Petticoats”, Market Street, Shaw on 01706 847494 or on-line at: www.wegottickets.com/location/3105