Wigan singer will perform in his front garden to recognise efforts of key workers

A singer is swapping his usual pub gigs for a show in his own front garden in a bid to lift his neighbour’s spirits and recognise key workers.
Ryan JamesRyan James
Ryan James

Ryan James, 27, has been singing for six years and spends his weekends entertaining customers at pubs around the borough, particularly The Wellfield in Beech Hill.

But the current restrictions imposed during the coronavirus pandemic mean he can no longer raise the roof at boozers.

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There has still been demand for him to perform though so Ryan will set up his microphone and lights outside his home on Wellfield Road, Beech Hill, on Thursday evening to do a set.

He plans to start just after a round of applause for NHS staff and other key workers at 8pm, when his neighbours will already be outside their homes.

Ryan, who works night shifts stacking shelves at Tesco Extra in Wigan, said: “I want to recognise all the key workers. My colleagues at Tesco have been working hard as well.

“Everyone is bored because they can’t go out, so I thought it would put a smile on their faces.”

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Ryan likes to sing “all the pub favourites”, such as songs by The Killers, Oasis and Michael Buble.

As well as performing at various pubs, he has sang at the DW Stadium before a Wigan Warriors match.

But a show in his own front garden, before audience members who are socially distancing, will be a totally different experience.

Ryan said: “I can’t wait for it. I’m nervous as anything but I’m excited too.”

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He hopes his live gig will provide a real boost for his neighbours, particularly those who are essential workers.

Ryan, who has a three-year-old daughter Poppy, said: “There are a few care workers in the street, there are nurses here as well. I want them to come home after being run off their feet and enjoy some entertainment when they finish their shifts. It will lighten up the mood.”

The show will not just be for people living on Wellfield Road, as it will also be streamed live at www.facebook.com/RyanJamesMaleVocalist.

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