The original idea for “One Night Only” came from Chris Newton, a 44 year old Lostock man who has secretly harboured a desire to play the piano from being very young.

“I thought how can I motivate myself to learn to play” he explains, “Which is when the idea of the concert came into being.

Chris decided that if he thought he’d have to not only learn but play live in front of a large audience then he’d be very focused to say the least! From there he contacted Cherry Thomas at The Bolton News who ran a story on Chris and his dream and…. hey presto! People got in touch to either take part as a contestant or simply wanting to lend support in any way they could.

“There are some very big hearts in Bolton” says Chris, “and I couldn’t have put this event together without the support of all those involved. Leighs Paints, one of Bolton’s most established companies immediately got behind the project and have been a tremendous support ever since. Three of the nine volunteer contestants are Leighs employees and the 27th November is marked on every calendar in every office!

Far and away the biggest support however has come from Donna Morgan, owner of Opus 1 Music Studios in Horwich who, along with all of the other music teachers is giving her time totally free of charge to help teach all contestants their respective instruments and get them ready for the night. We could not have put this together without Donna and her team.

The night itself will consist of all nine contestants playing their chosen instrument, each act preceded by a video diary of their progress throughout the months. After the break where a lovely hot pot supper will be served including a “Carrs” Pasty a piece the judges and audience votes will be counted. Nine becomes three for a semi-final. Following another short break the winner will be announced, as will the total amount raised for the Hospice. Our target is £15,000.

The contestants are a diverse bunch of people from all walks of life and all ages as you will see from their profiles. They all have one thing in common however. They are all very brave, very scared and very determined to raise as much money as possible to help this terrific institution. Your support would be very much appreciated. Thank you.