Song show holds no fears for fundraiser

A HIGHLAND man will be putting himself in the spotlight for charity for the first time in a decade.

Ness Factor contestant James Fraser (50) strutted his stuff in the first ever Strictly Inverness dance event held in aid of the Highland Hospice 10 years ago.

Now he is getting set to take to the stage once more – this time to sing – in memory of his older brother, Chris Watson, who passed away earlier this year after spending 10 days being cared for at the hospice in Inverness.

Mr Fraser, from Inverness, said: "My brother Chris was my inspiration and he made me the man I am today, from my outgoing personality to my love of music.

"I know when I sing on the night he will be right by my side supporting me.

"Everything about my performance from my outfit to my song choice will be a tribute to Chris."

Mr Fraser recalls many fond memories of times with his brother, including attending discos together and polishing his brother’s shoes for him before heading out for a night on the town.

No stranger to performing he said: "I am feeling a bit apprehensive about the big night but I wouldn’t say I feel overwhelmed with nerves.

"I love to sing and I am confident about being in front of crowds.

"I am not too concerned about winning – the real winner will be the hospice.

"I am just focused on doing my best and having a good time."

In the lead up to his big performance Mr Fraser has been keeping himself busy with a variety of fundraising activities from a race night to bake sales.

The Highland Hospice requires contestants to raise £1000 ahead of the event as well as a further £350 from corporate sponsorship.

However a determined Mr Fraser has his sights set on at least doubling that fundraising target.

He said: "The hospice is a fantastic charity to raise money for and it is close to my heart.

"I thought it would have been too easy for me to raise just £1000, so I wanted to set more of a challenge for myself."

Mr Fraser will take to the stage to compete against eight other contestants on October 27 at the Drumrossie Hotel in Inverness.

To sponsor James Fraser visit https://nessfactor2018.everydayhero.com/uk/james-fraser-s-ness-factor