Explosion Entertainments CIC

There is a world of difference between a small group of dancers and actors performing at a care home on a Sunday afternoon, and a top rock star belting out his hits on a Saturday night to an audience of thousands. Or maybe not. In both cases those involved are regularly giving their services for free, in order to benefit needy people.

Artists of all kinds may one day find themselves in need of full-time nursing. So it is not a chore for members of Harvest Arts Group, a kind of Concert Party based in Gloucestershire, to take lively "Songs of Praise" style church services to elderly people. Though many of these senior citizens suffer from senile dementia, and other crippling illnesses of the mind and body, they really appreciate these times, joining in the singing whenever their minds are sparked off by a familiar tune, or when the words of a favourite Christmas Carol emerge from their memory banks.

And the pop star? Sir Cliff Richard not only gives away one-tenth of his income, as part his Christian faith, but he also donates ten per cent of his time every year to good causes. One of these, Tearfund, helps extremely poor people in around 80 countries of the world, including those on the poverty line in the UK. As well as making romotional videos which involve travelling to such places as Uganda to meet AIDS victims, Cliff gives charity concerts at major venues such as Birmingham's NIA.

Perhaps you could give some of your time towards helping others in ways like these. Or maybe you are a charity fundraiser seeking selfless stars for good causes. Either way, Explosion Entertainments sounds like a great idea to me, as it is aiming to link people together. I hope it is successful in raising money, profiles and awareness.

Shirley Collins

Artistic Director, Arts Ecclesia

Shirley with Graham Cole alias PC Tony Stamp in ITV's "The Bill"