Keighley Playhouse raised £587 for the Sue Ryder Manorlands hospice from An Evening With Simon Shorten.

“It was a fantastic occasion,” said organiser Kathryn Tonks. “Simon arrived direct from the West End in London where he was rehearsing for his next musical. He gave a selection of songs from musicals such as Cats and Phantom of the Opera and the near full-house audience received the boy from Oakworth with great applause and enthusiasm, as well as being given the opportunity to ask questions about his career.”

Musical theatre star Simon talked about his journey from amateur theatre to the professional stage.

Simon was joined on stage by his wife Katy, local theatre stalwarts Angelo and Helen Clarke and Keighley Playhouse member Nikki Barrett.

Andrew Wood, fundraiser for the hospice, said, “We are delighted to receive this donation from Keighley Playhouse and look forward to their continued support. The money will go a long way to maintaining essential services.”