Christmas podcast to raise money for children’s charity
Jimmy Cricket is producing a special festive podcast in aid of his favourite charity.
The Northern Irish comedian is recording the half-show Christmas show in front of a live audience this week.
It will be made available as a podcast for people to listen to from Thursday (8 December).
Performing along with Jimmy are his wife May Marion and Jonathan Young (from The Bachelors), both professional singers.
The variety show, comprising comedy, songs and sketches, will be part of one of the regular ‘jam’ nights in Jimmy’s adopted home of Rochdale.
Famous Northern Irish funnyman Jimmy and May have for about 15 years hosted a regular night of entertainment and charity fund-raising at a local parish centre.
It provides an opportunity for Jimmy, May and other performers to try out new (and relive some old) routines.
They began it on a monthly basis and in the past few years have alternated hosting the jam nights with their good friend and fellow entertainer Eric Devereaux.
It takes place in the lounge area of St Vincent’s RC parish centre in Norden.
They often invite special guests who perform free of charge.
There is a raffle and the selling of refreshments, with all proceeds donated to a chosen charity.
‘Wee bit different’
The popular comedian has nicknamed those who regularly support these evenings as ‘Jimmy’s Jammers’.
Tuesday (6 December) is the next charity night, when the Christmas show will be recorded.
Francis House Children’s Hospice, for whom Jimmy has raised many thousands of pounds over the years, will benefit from proceeds of the podcast.
Jimmy said Tuesday would be a “wee bit different”.
He added: “I’m doing half-hour show called The Jimmy Cricket Christmas Variety Special.
“As well as the show being performed to the audience on the night, it will be recorded and put out on podcast to be heard until the end of December.
“What makes it doubly exciting is that I’ve got together with Francis House Children’s Hospice.
“For anyone who does tune in, we’re asking them to make a small donation towards the charity.
“Big or small, they will all be warmly accepted.”
Jimmy urged his friends and fans: “Why not listen via my website from Thursday, the eighth of December, and make a small donation to help raise much-needed funds for Francis House?!
“Merry Christmas everyone!”
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