A BARRHEAD entertainer has been voted Scotland’s best singing telegram performer.

Mike Collins, 61, is originally from Liverpool but settled in Barrhead eight years ago with his late wife Catherine.

The veteran singer performs at birthday parties, as well as hen and stag nights, and also helps with marriage proposals – not to mention romantic apologies from one partner to another.

And judges of the Scottish Enterprise Awards were happy to sing his praises after choosing him as one of their winners for 2021.

Mike said he is thrilled by his success at the awards, which are run by SME News – a digital publication for those who own, run or assist in the running of small or medium-sized businesses.

He told the Barrhead News: “It has been a great boost, particularly given the impact the Covid pandemic has had on my business.

“I have no idea who nominated me but hopefully it was a satisfied customer.”
Mike, whose company is called Singing Telegrams Scotland, has a degree in pop music from Huddersfield University.

His main character is ‘The Wandering Minstrel’ but he also offers the likes of a ‘Beatlegram’ inspired by the iconic Sgt Pepper album.

“The minstrel is taken from medieval history, when kings and noblemen would commission them to write songs about how they won a battle,” said Mike. “In the modern version, people tell me about their loved one and I adapt it into what I hope is an entertaining performance.”

As part of the performance, the customer gets an audio CD, lyric sheet and photographs of the day.

During the pandemic, Mike has introduced socially-distanced performances on doorsteps and in gardens, using a portable PA system.

He said: “Neighbours and passers-by will stop what they’re doing and join in, clapping, dancing and singing along.

“In a time where it may be difficult to see professional entertainers, I am happy to come along and sing in your garden – or anywhere.”

Mike started performing singing telegrams back in 1982 and hopes to celebrate his Ruby Jubilee year by doing a special show at the Edinburgh Festival.

For more information, visit here.