Leslie to celebrate 80th birthday in style with final fundraising concert

A POPULAR entertainer is gearing up to celebrate his milestone 80th birthday in style with a charity concert this weekend.

Leslie Matthews, who is originally from the Newtownstewart area but lives in St Johnston, is hosting the musical extravaganza at St Johnston Presbyterian Church on Sunday, January 18.

Billed as 'A Charity Fundraising Gospel Concert (To Celebrate his big '80'), a host of local talent will join Leslie on the night for what is sure to be a memorable occasion.

The concert will also feature Canon David McBeth, Catherine McLaughlin, John Hamilton on pipes, Jessica McKean and possibly the Children's Choir.

As is the case with most of Leslie's endeavours, the concert will raise money for a number of charities.

A special collection will be taken up during the service with all proceeds going to The Donegal Hospice, SVP St Johnston branch, plus a contribution to the church itself.

Leslie has been fundraising for many years and as well as marking his big birthday, this Gospel-themed concert will be his last big fundraiser.

Speaking this week, as he makes final preparations for the show, Leslie, who has has been performing for 50 years, extended a warm welcome to everyone to join the festivities.

"I'm sure it will be another great night," he said. "I am so appreciative of the wonderful support the people of Tyrone, Donegal and further afield, have shown me during my time performing, especially the last 25 years when I've fundraised for the charities.

"As well as being my birthday, it's my last charity concert!

"Everyone is welcome to come along from the local community and beyond.

"Your presence and financial support will be so much appreciated."

Over the years, the charitable local man has raised thousands for a number of charities, including the Donegal Hospice and Cancer Research.

"I've raised almost €70,000 for the Donegal Hospice in Letterkenny and for Cancer Research/MS in the north, the total would be in and around £80,000,” he said.

When he considers all his fundraising endeavours over the years, the Tyrone native estimates he has raised an impressive £200,000 in the last 25 years.

"It's all gone to very deserving causes, and I've always been so grateful to all those who come along to the shows and helped me raise the money," he added.

"As I say, people have always been so generous.

"I've enjoyed it all, but now it's time to hang up the boots!"

The event is open to everyone to come along and gets underway at 7.30pm sharp.