Corrie actor’s tonic for Shields patients
FORMER Coronation Street star Bruce Jones made a surprise visit to South Tyneside District Hospital.
The actor, best known for playing the soap’s Les Battersby, was at the hospital in Harton Lane, South Shields, to record a show for Hospital Radio South Tyneside (HRST).
He met patients and staff before moving into the radio studio, where he was interviewed by volunteer DJ David Johnson, and former Century FM presenter, Paul ‘Goffy’ Gough.
The show has been played on the airwaves to patients over the past few days, with the actor giving an insight into his life and TV career.
The visit was organised as a surprise for David, 20, who suffers from autism and has worked for the radio station as a volunteer for several years.
Ron Cameron, HRST chairman, said: “David knew Goffy was going to be there, but he couldn’t believe it when Bruce walked into the room.
“The reaction of the public and the staff as Bruce walked into the hospital’s Ingham Wing reception was amazing, with people queuing for photographs and chatting with one of soap’s best-loved characters.
“It wasn’t long before many of the wards were aware of his presence, and a visit that was initially meant to be an hour ended up being closer to three.
“He also commended the staff and volunteers in the hospital on their hard work and commitment, and he said David is a natural radio star.”
On the air, Bruce gave an insight into the world of Coronation Street, how he got the role, his favourite actors, what he thinks of the show and whether he would go back.
Since leaving Coronation Street in 2007, Bruce has starred on TV shows including Come Dine With Me and Coach Trip.
He launched his book, Les Battersby And Me, last year.
He has been in the North East this week for TV and promotion work with Goffy, who runs Hartlepool-based Goffy Media.
David, from Jarrow, has been mentored by Goffy since he appeared on the presenter’s Goffy In The Morning show, at the age of 11.
Hospital Radio South Tyneside broadcasts daily to patients at South Tyneside Hospital and the former Ingham Infirmary in South Shields, for 55 years.
Anyone who is interested in getting involved should call the station on 0844 586 5201 or visit www.hrst.co.uk
Twitter: @shieldsgazjoe
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Monday 21 May 2012
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