Lost Voice Guy made patron of Find A Voice charity

Lost Voice Guy

North East comedian Lee Ridley has been made patron of the disability charity Find A Voice.

Ridley, who calls himself Lost Voice Guy on stage, contracted cerebral palsy when he was six months old and has never been able to speak. Thanks an iPad app, however, he is able to perform stand-up comedy.

And in an interview with the Sunday Sun newspaper, Ridley, from Newcastle, told of his delight at supporting a cause he holds close to his heart.

He explained: “I was invited to do a gig for Find A Voice, who help supply communication aids to people who need them. When I got there, I was asked if I’d like to become patron of the charity. It was a huge honour to be asked and I was delighted to accept their offer.

“Obviously it’s a charity that does work that is close to my heart and I’m probably a good ambassador for them – so it’s a good deal for us both.”

Ridley also responded to the proposed 100% cuts to arts funding by Newcastle City Council, as he prepares to play the Newcastle Stand next month.

He said: “When I was offered the gig I jumped at the opportunity. I just love playing at The Stand.

“The people of Newcastle are so lucky to have such a great comedy club on their doorstep especially when publicly-funded venues such as Northern Stage and Live Theatre which I also love may struggle with the cuts in funding.”

Mike Milligan, Jonathan Pelham and Cheish Merryweather are also billed to play the show, in aid of the Evening Chronicle’s Sunshine Fund, on Tuesday 18 December. Tickets cost £5.

For more information, see: justgiving.com/christmas-comedy-night-2012