Sir Cliff Richard, Norman Collier and Charlie Williams are among celebrities who have sent messages of goodwill to the man who founded the famous Batley Variety Club.

It is in response to a civic reception and reunion planned for James Corrigan on Saturday from 7pm at Batley Town Hall to honour his services to showbusiness.

Mr Corrigan, 73, who now lives in York, will be attending, even though seriously ill with cancer.

Topping the bill will be The Grumbleweeds, Wayne Dobson, The Bachelors, Bernie Clifton and comedy scriptwriter Mike Craig.

The event will be filmed by the BBC as part of a documentary about the club - which closed 20 years ago this year - to be screened on December 17.

Organiser Maureen Prest, who is the former promotions manager of the club, said: "This is going to be a very emotional and unique event. We are expecting about 300 people. Goodwill messages are pouring in every day from artists all over the country. Cliff Richard sent a wonderful message by fax and Shirley Bassey is expected to send one.

"All the goodwill messages will also be read out and the Mayor and Mayoress of Kirklees, Councillors Mike and Marie Bower, will present James with an award for his services to showbusiness on behalf of the people of Batley.''

Members of the public are invited to the celebrations. Tickets are £7.50 and include a buffet supper. Contact Mrs Prest on 01924 472810 for further details.

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