Shielding musician finally donates CD proceeds to Acorns in person

Andy Brown, who suffers with Multiple Sclerosis, released the 11-track album Let's Celebrate in 2019 but has been shielding for the last two years.

Andy, 57, presented a cheque of the proceeds, £675, to Acorns staff and is delighted the hospice is no longer in danger of closing down.

The former Walsall Manor Hospital nurse said: "I know the amazing work they do at Acorns and I, like everyone else was worried they would close down.

"So I recorded the CD with some friends and decided to donate the money to Acorns but for the last 18 months I have been shielding so have not been able to hand over the cheque."

Mr Brown, who has a diploma in performing arts, said: "In the past I've done charity shows but I thought 'I'm not physically fit to do anything on the stage' and I thought I would put a CD together.

"Hospice care is very different because it's an entirely different kind of palliative care and they have children in for respite care, too."

Nick Durell also put on a cabaret night to raise funds for the hospice which was a success.

The CD is still for sale and includes standards including Ken Dodd's Absent Friend.

Andy said: "I put that in as a tribute to him as it was his song and because I sang the song myself – and the lyrics are very meaningful," he said.

The CD costs £6 and is available by emailing acornscdproject@outlook.com or by calling 07851 223 594.