Richie rides high in the poppy charts

Prime Minister David Cameron with The Soldiers (Left to right) Lance Corporal Ryan Idzi, Staff Sergeant Richie Maddocks and Sergeant Major Gary Chiltern, on the steps of Downing Street to help launch the 2011 Poppy Appeal song.

RUBBING shoulders with the Prime Minister and performing with global pop stars is all in a day’s work for Oldham soldier Richie Maddocks.

Hot on the heels of recording the official Poppy Appeal single with Bee Gee Robin Gibb, Staff Sgt Maddocks, one part of trio, The Soldiers, is busy promoting the release of their third album “Message To You”.

The single “I’ve Gotta Get a Message To You”, penned by Robin and recorded by the Bee Gees in 1968, is first on the album, which now sits at No 11 in the charts.

Sgt Maddocks, who saw action in the 1999 Gulf War, said: “It’s been an amazing experience. Robin is a true legend. He’s a nice fella and his experience just shines through.”

Last week the former South Chadderton School pupil took part in an impromptu performance for David Cameron.

“It was an experience to go to Downing Street and sing a few bars for him,” he added.

The trio of soldiers, which include L/Cpl Ryan Idzi and Sgt Major Gary Chiltern, have raised £500,000 for forces charities.

“Our aim is to reach a million pounds. I wouldn’t say no to a fourth album. It’s really hard to get us together though because we’re posted across the country,” Sgt Maddocks said.

The group soared into the hearts of the British public with their debut album in 2010. Sgt Maddocks, who is works as an instructor at the Royal Military School of Music lives in Twickenham, spent a week recording his section of the album.

“I’ve Gotta Get a Message To You” is now available from Amazon, HMV, www.poppyshop.org.uk and other outlets.