DJ and Elvis Presley impersonator Jim Nicholas has raised an amazing £200,000 over 25 years for Francis House Children’s Hospice.
Jim, who is a good friend of comedian Jimmy Cricket, has raised the funds by collecting at his performances.
Northern Irish funnyman Jimmy has also brought in a lot of money over the decades for the hospice.
Francis House is based in south Manchester.
Both entertainers feature in the latest edition of the charity’s newsletter (above).
‘Wonderful cause’
Jimmy, 74, tweeted: “Our thanks, (mine and Jim Nicholas), for the lovely article in the@FrancisHouseCH winter newsletter.
“It has been a pleasure working on behalf of your wonderful cause over the years!”
His pal Jim says in the newsletter: “From day one when I first went to Francis House and saw the families, I felt that I wanted to do everything I could for them.
“Without Francis House these families would be stuck.
“If I can entertain people and they enjoy what I’m doing, and if that helps in some small way, I’m happy to do it.”
Jim, who is from Swinton in Salford, Greater Manchester, is also the impresario behind Jimmy’s variety shows for Francis House.
The pair were introduced many years ago by Sister Aloysius and have remained close friends and showbiz partners ever since.
Christmas CD
The Stars Come Out for Francis House charity gala has taken place at the Oldham Coliseum eight times.
In addition, there are plans for an October 2020 performance.
A few years ago, Jimmy hit upon the idea of original Christmas numbers to sell at his shows with profits donated to Francis House.
The CD is Santa bring my wellies back to me.
The name of the CD relates to the theft several years ago of concrete wellington boots (below right).
‘Happy Christmas everyone!’
The late Sir Ken Dodd had given them to Rochdale-based Jimmy.
Jimmy said: “With Christmas ‘19 beckoning my goal is to reach 2,000 copies and that would mean we’ve raised £10,000 for Francis House.
“A big thank you to those of you who’ve bought one and a Happy Christmas everyone!”
Francis House said: “Help Jimmy reach his goal of selling 2,000 copies to raise £10,000!
“‘Santa Bring My Wellies Back To Me’ can be purchased for £5 plus £1.95 p&p from Francis House by calling 0161 443 2200.
“Or go to www.francishouse.org.uk/getinvolved/shop/online-shop/”
You can also buy the CD here at Jimmy’s own website.
And there’s more… there’s a special Christmas offer on at present from Jimmy!
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