TWO vital Tenbury charities are hoping people turn out in force for a special night of variety at The Regal Cinema.

It is being staged in aid of both Tenbury Swimming Pool and Shoot for the Stars that helps to build the confidence and self-esteem of young people with learning difficulties.

The two charities have been chosen by George Price, mayor of Tenbury, for support during his year in office.

When the curtain rises on Saturday March 8 it will be the major fund raising event of the year for the two charities.

Comedian Lloyd Hollett will host a full programme that will give musicians and performers in Tenbury a chance to showcase their work.

The bill includes the rock band Hot Rox, the Paddy Brennan Boxing Academy, Hannah Bailey, Paul Snook, the Tenbury Town Band, Michael Adcock and Polly Edwards.

“It promises to be a really good night with a variety of different entertainers showing off the talent in and around Tenbury,” added George Price.

“This a variety show and not a talent contest.”

When George Price became mayor he immediately expressed concern for the future of the swimming pool and fitness centre.

The pool dates back to the late 1960s and has vital equipment like the boilers, heat exchangers for warming the water and chlorine dosing kit that is very expensive.

Contrary to what many people believe it is not a council facility but is run by a trust that will soon be handing over the new Tenbury and District Swimming Pool Company.

Malvern Hills District Council provides a grant to the pool but there are fears that this may be in jeopardy as pressures grow on local government spending.

This new company will take on the main role of fund raising and planning the future for the pool and fitness centre.

It is currently undertaking a survey in Tenbury to find out what people like and dislike about the facility and how they would like to see it improved.

“This is a vital facility that is used by people of all ages from the town and surrounding area,” Coun Price said.

“It is more important than ever as the need for people to be able to exercise to help combat the growing problem of obesity becomes understood.

“The pool is also used by people with illness and injury on the recommendation of doctors.”

Also benefitting from the concert will be young people in their teenage years or early 20s who belong to the ‘Shoot for the Stars’ group.

They meet every two weeks at Cafe 27 in Teme Street under the ‘Our Way’ youth initiative.

“It is a tremendous group that helps to support young people especially with learning difficulties,” said Coun Price.

“There are trips and visits but the main objective is to help young people with ‘self advocacy’ so that they can speak up for themselves.

“It gives them more independence and boosts their self- esteem.”

Tickets for the concert are £10 and available for The Regal Box Office.