March 16th 2009
Residents raise a laugh for Comic Relief

Residents at a Bedford sheltered housing scheme raised a laugh to support Comic Relief on Friday.

The residents at Tavistock Court, which is owned and managed by housing association bpha, joined forces with BBC Three Counties Radio for a broadcast with a difference.

Presenter Tim Wheeler presented his afternoon show from Tavistock Court’s common room as he attempted the challenge of stand-up comedy routine – with the help of Butlin’s Red Coat, Paul Scott.

Tim had visited the sheltered housing scheme for a trial run the week before and spent the following few days perfecting his routine to ensure he raised a laugh among his audience and the listeners at home.

Assistant retirement services manager, Lynne Taylor, said: “Tim and the team thought an older audience would be among the most discerning and that they would be sure to tell it to him straight if he just wasn’t funny.

“We were happy to take part and host the challenge and all the residents enjoyed the spectacle of a live broadcast from their common room.

“We certainly noticed an improvement in Tim’s comedy skills between the first and second visits. He obviously put in a lot of hard work in and we would like to congratulate on his achievements.

“We have a really active community here at Tavistock Court and were delighted to be able to support such a good cause.”

As well as supporting the challenge, the residents at Tavistock Court also donated £123 for Comic Relief