Variety is the spice of life

As summer ends and autumn shortens our evenings, I have been wondering what I might do when I’m not behind the mic at Torbay Hospital Radio, well I’m pleased to report there is plenty to do over the coming weeks and months. Music is my passion, so I thought I would have a look at what our local venues have to offer.
Now, if you like a sea shanty, and let’s face it, who doesn’t? You need look no further than September 23 when Missin' Tackle Shanty Crew are holding a 12-hour 'Singathon starting at 10am to help raise funds for the Rowcroft Hospice at Christian Community Centre, in Fore Street, Brixham. The event is free but obviously they are looking to raise valuable funds, and the event includes all styles of singing.
If we look forward to January, the world famous Fisherman’s Friends will once again be at the Princess Theatre in Torquay. If you have been lucky enough to see them on the Platt on the harbour in their native Port Isaac, you will know how entertaining they are. Who would have thought that a group containing a lobster fisherman, a builder and a former ambulance driver would be selling out venues all around the country. When I looked. there were a few seats left.
Okay, so sea shanties are not for everyone. I get that. Why not try the Livermead Cliff Hotel on November 6 when Hejira, a 7-piece band, preform the works of Joni Mitchell. Tickets are on sale online.
If you re not in a folky mood, why not try Doctor & the Medics, as they play a charity gig at the Palace Theatre in Paignton on November 3. Formed in 1982 by The Rev Dr. Clive Thomas Jackson, the band are best known for their No 1 Spirit in the Sky in 1986, and they are a great live band. Profits are going to ESSW Charitable Trust, who support a variety of good causes.
They say variety is the spice of life, so here are a couple more suggestions. The legendary Three Degrees take to the stage in Babbacombe on October 1, followed four weeks later on the 28th by tribute band, The Darkside of Pink Floyd, who are very highly thought of.
Hopefully, I’ve given you some ideas for the months to come. It reminds me that people like different styles of music and that is reflected by the requests we get from patients and their family members here at THR. I am continually surprised by what we are asked to play, that said, we can usually get it on air the same day, sometimes within the hour.