Popular TV wine critic swaps his chalice for a microphone

Balcombe’s Charles Metcalfe, television presenter, opera singer and wine buff, will be Master of Ceremonies for ‘Night of 100 Voices’ – a fundraising event for the local branch of the Motor Neurone Disease Association.

The event commemorates Rick Peckham, stepfather of TV and radio presenter Zoe Ball, who lost his fight to the condition.

“We are extremely excited that Charles could join us for this charity evening,” said organiser Susan Fleet.

“Having performed with many distinguished opera companies, Charles has headlined in concerts throughout the UK and Europe, as well as televised productions of Orfeo by Monteverdi and La Perichole by Offenbach.”

Charles was the resident drinks expert on Richard and Judy’s This Morning programme for twelve years. Most viewers will remember him sharing drinks with Lily Savage in Liverpool’s Albert Dock. Now he’s the latest star to be added to the concert’s roster of more than 100 renowned performers. International opera artist Andrew Rees and swing singer Duncan Allen will perform solo items, while sisters Laura and Emily Loutit will perform two musical numbers.

With a programme including a medley of songs from Les Miserables and Oliver, as well as perennial classics such as ‘Tonight’ and ‘Some Enchanted Evening’, the concert promises first class entertainment. Conductor Richard Haslam is musical director and Tim Nail is the accompanist.

The evening is also an anniversary celebration of a Burgess Hill businesswoman’s fundraising efforts. Semi-professional soprano Susan Fleet, who has run a business in the town since 1986, has arranged charity concerts for 45 years.

Susan hopes to raise £10,000 for Motor Neurone. She selected The King’s Centre in her hometown to celebrate the milestone as the venue holds 550 people. The concert will be available on BluRay and DVD after the event.

Tickets are £15 and can be purchased online here.

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