The Cat

This week, on The Hot Desk, Joel explains how your health & fitness directly affects your energy, focus and motivation.

Today, Shaun's Listener Advice is centred on micro-businesses taking on their first employee and it helps to ensure whoever you take on is a good fit and understands the business ethos.

This week Des talks to, Danielle Harrington, a director from Canalside Garden Centre and Danielle discusses how they intend to develop the business and how they give back to the local community through their community links.

Fresh from their success in "Nativity" CAYT (Congleton Amateur Youth Theatre joined Kev Watson in the studio, at Cheshire College South & West, to talk about their new production "Frozen Jr." which plays out at the Daneside Theatre, Congleton in May. Will Vickers (Director) and three members of the cast talk about their show, their parts and what it is like to be part of CAYT.

After over 10 years, it was about time Legs had a catch up with Blind Lemon Pledge.

They talk about his career, his latest release, "Oh So Good", and his plans for the future.

The Nantwich Players held an open evening recently, where a number of directors outlined what to expect from their plays which collectively form the new season of plays for the Players. In this podcast Chris Finney, the director of 'Dr Jeckll & Mr Hyde' talks about why he chose this version of the story and what he expects from cast and crew.

Jay Bridges and Andrew Joyce joined Kev Watson in the studio to discuss Cheshire College South & West's (CCSW) production of Shakespeare's "The Tempest".

It will play at the Axis Art Centre/Well Being Centre on May 1st (1pm / 7pm).

They talked about the play, the 'Performing Arts Level 3' course the production is part of, their roles and their love of acting.

Tickets can be obtained (£4.50) from the CCSW website.

Legs chats to the Stockport based singer about her influences, and the release of her debut album.

La Voix is a fantastic entertainer - star of TV shows like Britain's Got Talent and Queen for One Night - and she will perform at Crewe's Lyceum Theatre on Thursday 27th June for one night only. Her shows are ridiculously funny, filled with great songs, and more costume changes than a Dior fashion parade.

Kev Watson spoke to La Voix about her 'Red Ambition Tour', which brings her to Crewe and how she entertained everyone during Covid, her love of Cruising (her show is sponsored by P&O Cruises - and I got a right earful when I mentioned 'ferries'!) and what we might expect on the night of the 27th June.

Steve Pateman, who was the real shoe-maker behind "Kinky Boots", visited Crewe Amateur Musical Society (CAMS) on the last night of their rehearsals before they head to the Crewe Lyceum (17th - 20th April) to perform the show. Steve spoke to theCat's Kev Watson about the real story behind the heels and the boots and how the film and musical was born.

This week on Business Brunch, Des interviews Andrea Clegg, the managing director of Auriga Advocates Ltd and Andrea discusses her work with the Crown Prosecution Service and the book she published in 2016 entitled ‘Defend Your Licence’.

Sheila Dutton, from the Nantwich Players, invited me along to their New Season Open Evening.

The event provided an interesting insight into the workings of a theatre company - the directors discussed their upcoming shows, the cast requirements, the technical challenges and how they intend to present the work.

It was quite intriguing. In this podcast Sheila Dutton outlines the development process of a play at the Nantwich Players and Max Clay shared his hopes and aspirations for 'One Man, Two Guv'nors' which will play at the Nantwich Players in September.

Legs chats to Albert Cummings about his most recent release "Strong", and his career so far

Crewe Amateur Musical Society (CAMS) will present "Kinky Boots" at the Crewe Lyceum Theatre between the 17th - 20th April. Three weeks away from their performance the cast and creative team spoke to theCat107.9fm Kev Watson about the show, their roles and the songs they will be singing.

Tickets can be obtained from the Crewe Lyceum website.

This week Des talks to Lou Davis owner of Loud Social Media and Lou gives some helpful tips on how to develop your target audience on social media.

Today Des interviews David Bilsborough, the owner of Cheshire Cars in Crewe and David discusses how he launched The Independent Motor Dealers Association that now boasts over 1200 members and his opinion of how the electric car market will develop over the next few years.

On The Hot Desk today, Maisy Owen's Listener Advice detailed how to build resilience into your business.

Legs chats to the songwriter from the North Lincolnshire based band.

They talk about the formation of the band, their plans for the future, and even touch upon the state of the music industry.

Must See Musicals will present their "Musical Showcase" at Worleston Village Hall on 23rd March. Kev Watson joined them during rehearsals and met existing and new cast members of the group and they discussed the songs from the show and what it's like to join Must See Musicals as a new member.

Legs chats to the vocalist, harmonica player and songwriter for the Cornish blues band The Mighty Howlers

Kev Watson - A Slice of the British Isles - Gareth Butler

On Songs from the Shows 37 Kev Watson spoke to Gareth Butler, the creative producer of A "Slice of the British Isles", which is coming to the Crewe Lyceum on 20th October, 2024. The concert is in aid of a veterans charity called "The Unforgotten".

It will feature music and dance from the British Isles - including A Male Voice Choir from Crewe, Crewe brass, Scottish Pipe Band, Irish Dancers and Morris Dancers.

Tickets are available now (£28) from the Crewe Lyceum website and the GB Pageants website.

Today Des interviews Chris Woolnough, the UK Managing Director of Assurant and Chris discusses how their business systems have changed as a result of the pandemic and why it's so important for Assurant to connect with the local community and support charities and clubs etc.

PJ Interview with Izzy Cundy, and Diane Mason. all about three local Mum's Izzy, Emma and Diane are running this year’s London Marathon on a treadmill fundraising and in support of Children with Cancer UK

All Starts at Running Bear 12, Oat Market, Nantwich, CW5 5AL. at 10am Friday February 23rd and finishes. 10am Saturday 24th February. Please Feel Free to Go Along and Support the Girl's with Their massive Challenge. Plus, if You Would Like to Donate, Please Follow the Link Below.

If you want to support them and make a donation, you can do so via JustGiving - justgiving.com/page/izzy-emma-diane

"The Not Forgotten" is a less well known charity that supports British veterans. Gareth Roberts is the Creative Producer of a show coming to the Crewe Lyceum, for one night only (12th October, 2024), that will support "The Not Forgotten". The show is called "A Slice of the British Isles" Graham joined Kev Watson - presenter of theCat's "Songs from the Shows" to discuss "A Slice of the British Isles" and how the show came to be staged, this year, at the Crewe Lyceum.

On this week's show, Gary talks to special guest Carole Salmon of local company Right at Home about their new off-shoot RISE

This is Part 2 of Gary talking to Linda De Sa and Kati-Leigh Newson of the brilliant children's support group Visyon

On this Week's Cat in the Community, Gary talks to Linda De Sa and Katie-Leigh Hewson of the brilliant local support Group Visyon Par1

Today Des & Dave talk to Kevin Rodgers, the managing director of KR Fleet Solutions Ltd and Kevin discusses how they won 'Start-up Business of the Year' at the South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce & Industry Business Awards in November 2023.

Legs met up with Joe Louis at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, but they didn't get to record an interview as planned.

They did, however, hook up once Legs got back to the U.K. and here is that recording

Today Des interviews Nick Rowbottom, managing director of Viz Reflectives Ltd and Nick discusses how his entrepreneurial skills helped him to build several successful businesses supplying customers across the world.

Today Des talks to Amaka Lawton, a founding partner of The Alpha Omega WPS Foundation and Amaka talks about growing up in Nigeria, travelling to the UK to study for her Masters Degree and what inspired her to launch the Foundation that helps women and girls in the locality.

Today Des talks to Nigel Mellor, the managing director of Crewe Plumbing Ltd and Nigel discusses how hard work and an eye for detail helped him to develop a successful plumbing business.

Kev Watson spoke to the directors and cast of Shavington Village's Festival Pantomime 2024 which is "Little Red Riding Hood". The history of the village's pantomime, the roles being played and how to get tickets are all discussed.

(Little Red Riding Hood - 20th - 24th February - Shavington Academy www.svfc.info )

In this episode of InBrief with Gary Johnson, Ben Wye introduces the Crewe Creative Champions and makes a call to action for potential volunteers, young and old, to get involved and bring their ideas' to the fore to help shape the creative and cultural future of the town.

Michael Shneck from MCMTC (Mid-Cheshire Musical Theatre Company) talks about playing the part of Fagin in "Oliver!".

Oliver! is playing at the Northwich Memorial Court Theatre 21-24th Feb. Tickets Still Available from TicketSource.

In this Episode of In Brief, Gary Johnson talks to Lucy Coates, Development Officer of CVS (Crewe Voluntary Services) and also Social Action Lead for the Cheshire and Merseyside Cancer Alliance. I in 2 people in the UK will be affected by Cancer in their lifetime and the new alliance looks to raise awareness across the region.

In this episode 29 year old Hannah Fairclough, who has had minimal sight since birth and virtually blind since the age of 18, talks to Gary Johnson on how she has turned adversity into a positive and created her own business "Hannah's Teaching Tech"

As we all Know we are all Feeling the Big Pinch as this Year is Set to Be the Busiest for all Charity's but it is The Food Banks That Really Shine This Time of Year with Over 500 Food Parcels To Make up and Deliver Over the Festive Thats Just one Small Food Bank. PJ Talks to Damian Gear from Nantwich Food Bank. For the First Time for Ages the Food Banks are having To Buy Food as Food Donations Get Smaller as we all just Cannot Give what we Used To. Please if you are struggling please CALL AND GET a Referral Now Before it is too late. Citerzens Advice 0800 1448848

Dan & Tracey from "Must See Musicals" popped into theCat to tell us about their Open Evening on January 10th. We talked about their successful Christmas Cabaret, plans for 2024, but mainly about their invitation to new members to join them - and to meet the existing members at the Opening Evening.

Today Des talks to Mark Batch, Head of Human Resources at Boughey Distribution and Mark discusses how he looks after the interests of over 700 employees and what it takes to win Employer of the Year Award at the recent South Cheshire Chamber Business Awards.

Rosie is qualified counsellor offering face-to-face, online or telephone sessions. She works with individuals in Crewe, Middlewich and surrounding areas. She uses a variety of therapeutic approaches when working with clients.

The 2023 Pantomime at Crewe's Lyceum Theatre is Cinderella starring Matt Terry (2016 X Factor Winner) as Prince Charming, Eva Parsons as Cinderella with Malcolm Lord as the Fairy Godmother and Ste Johnson returning as Buttons.

Today Des talks to Mark Haase, the Chief Executive Officer of SG World Ltd and Mark discusses the strategic objectives for SG World and what it takes to be a successful CEO in the printing sector.

Delving into the archives for the last interview that will be played out in 2023, Legs uncovers a chat he and Jen had with American singer, songwriter and guitarist R.B. Stone

Interview with Mark Porter from Mid Cheshire Hospitals Charity who spills the beans on their Festive Five for 2023 and his first Christmas in his newrole.

Back in the days of "Monday Morning Blues" Jen and Legs had a chat with guitarist, singer, songwriter Paul Rose about his career up to that point.

If you weren't listening on the internet then, you won't have heard this one.

Des talks to Richard Thrower, the managing director of Motion Focus Media Ltd, who discusses how he left school with precious few qualifications and now runs his own business winning business throughout the UK and Europe.

Interview with Ij from Nene Tlc about a shared space dedicated to empowering ethnic minority women chatting to Carole in the Community

Chatting to Jen and Kev from their tour bus, the band gave us an insight into their origins.

Another gem from the archives.

Legs has been rooting around in the vaults again, and come up with this little gem from the internet days, featuring singer, songwriter and guitarist Michael Harrison.

Dan Rushton & Daniel Perry, from Must See Musicals, came into the studio to tell Kev Watson all about their Xmas Cabaret which plays at the Wynbury Village Hall on the 3rd December at 1pm / 5pm. Afternoon Tea and a visit by the man in Red & White is to be expected as part of your ticket price (£12).

Today Des talks to Dan Marshall the Joint CEO of Absolute Solutions Group Ltd and Dan discusses what it takes to be awarded the Ecovardis Gold accreditation, ranking his company in the top 1% worldwide.

Interview with Supervet Noel Fitzpatrick talking to Carole in the Community about his upcoming show at Crewe Lyceum

Adam Goode, from the Shavington Drama Group, came into theCat107.9FM to tell Kev Watson all about the "Christmas Cracker" that the group will present on December 9th & 10th. It will raise much needed funds for local charities at Xmas and will take place at the Shavington Village Hall. Have a listen and, better yet, buy tickets -->

Kate from Sandbach Art Room chats to Carole about their Mole Hunt and the classes that they offer.

Kev Watson, from theCat107.9FM, visited the Crewe Lyceum Theatre to meet with, and chat to, seven of the theatre's "Young Ambassadors".

The "Young Ambassadors" is a scheme for 14-18 year olds, starting in September, that runs throughout the school year and provides the opportunity for the Young Ambassadors to learn all about the workings of the theatre.

They spoke to Kev about their hopes and aspirations for the scheme and a special role they will have in this years Pantomime at the Crewe Lyceum.

Anything Is Possible If You If You Think About It Hard Enough is a play about a young couple who meet, fall in love and then are beset by a terrible tragedy. We are witness to their story. Maja and Kit play Alex and Rupert in the Nantwich Players Studio production 2nd-5th November. They spoke to Kev Watson at theCat107.9FM about the play, the roles and how rehearsals were going. Have a listen...

Going back to the early days of the blues show, Jen and Legs chat to Antipodean singer, songwriter and guitarist Isaiah B. Brunt

Business Brunch, every Wednesday at 11am - this week Des talks to Toni Mortimer, managing director of Vetta Properties Ltd and Toni discusses the importance of developing customer service to a very high standard in order to maximise referrals.

Kit & Maja play Rupert & Alex, a young and in love couple who suffer a tragedy that causes them an enormous amount of grief in their young relationship. They spoke to Kev Watson, on theCat107.9FM, about the play and spoke about the acting challenges that the play presents.

The play - Anything Is Possible If You Think About It Hard Enough - is an emotional roller-coaster and plays at the Nantwich Players Theatre 2nd - 5th November.

Kev Watson, from theCat107.9FM's "Songs from the Shows", speaks to Paul Metcalfe who plays Rod Stewart in "Some Guys Have All The Luck" at the Crewe Lyceum on Saturday October 14th. 4 min.

Tony Burn & Richard Hill, directors of Mackenzies Swap Shop Ltd, discuss some the difficulties starting a new business and why 10% of their revenue is going to charity.

Legs has a chat with legendary soul singer Geno Washington, prior to his appearance at The Full Moon in Newcastle Under Lyme (which, sadly, no longer exists)

Legs chats to one of the greatest voices in the business, spanning countless genres.

A interview with Adele from the Growing for Health Community Garden in Nantwich. This hidden gem is a sanctuary of nature, growth and wellbeing. More details here Growing Health Community Garden | Nantwich Town Council

The director and 3 members of the 41 strong cast of Congleton Amateur Youth Theatre visited the studio at theCat where they spoke to Kev Watson about their production of Nativity, in November at the Daneside Theatre 12-18th Nov. They discussed 'Nativity!', the audition process, how to get involved in the group and they also gave 'Songs from the Shows' an exclusive reveal of their April 2024 show!

Kev Watson, from the Cat's "Songs from the Shows" speaks with the director and cast of Nativity The Musical which will play at the Daneside Theatre 12th - 18th November.

Legs got to chat with British Blues legend Connie Lush a few years ago, just prior to her performance at The Nantwich Jazz, Blues & Music Festival.

Here's your chance to catch up, in case you missed the original broadast.

Claire Smith is the managing director of Evolve Together Ltd and in today's 'Listener Advice' Claire shares the 'Sales Cycle' in 8 well-defined principles.

A interview with Lisa from JG Creative promoting the upcoming 'Communicating your charity's purpose event on 4th October at Crewe Hall

Today Des talks to Emma Semper-Hopkins, who discusses  some of the benefits of owning your own business premises and how to establish a positive work/life balance.

Jamie discusses how his sign-writing business has developed since he became the MD in 2010 and the plans that he has in place to take the business forward in 2024.

Joe Gill, from ITV's "Emmerdale", plays Harry O'Dwyer, the love interest of Helen Forester, in her auto-biographical play "By The Waters Of Liverpool" - which is currently touring the UK. Joe shares his love of the play and the part of Harry O'Dwyer with theCat107.9FM's Kev Watson.

On afternoons with Dolan, Jordan talks to Nicola Jackson, Principal of the Richmond Care Village in Nantwich about what has been achieved so far and Nicola and the Team's vision for the future

Kerry-Ann Davies, estate agency director for Butters John Bee, discusses her passion for customer service and how she nurtures her 'A Team' of 47 employees.

Charles discusses why Crewe Alexandra Football Academy is an crucial part of their business model and why local football clubs are the 'beating heart' of the community.

Another delve in to the archives for this interview from 2013

On the Breakfast show, Gary talks to Ruth Williams of the Smile Group who are reaching out to those that maybe suffering from both pre and post-natal depression. In today's interview Ruth tells us all about the new group the are forming in Crewe.

An interview with Kay from Cheshire Roses. A local support group offering emotional and pastoral support to women affected by cancer which is creating a strong community of strength.

In the first episode of the In Brief with Gary Johnson series, local man Steve Pointon talks to Gary about how he now supports others with their Mental Health challenges based on his own personal journey.

On today's Breakfast Show Gary talks to Kelly (Tigerheart) Phillips about her brilliant new single Gaslight Me

Jamie Parker, the Managing Director of Red Rag Marketing Ltd discusses how to maximise the benefits of using AI in your business.

Dave has two guests from environmental services company Ansa. They chat about refuse collections and recycling in Cheshire East.

This comes from the early days of the blues shows on The Cat, when it was Midweek Blues.

Jen and Kev had a live chat with Canadian musician John Pippus, who was doing a short tour around The Netherlands.

It also happened to be the first ever interview they conducted.

Dave chats to Rachel Lovatt about how are busy lifestyles can often leave us stuck in a rut. Rachel tells us how she can help get us unstuck.

The Crewe Lyceum Summer Youth Project is Oliver Junior. Kev Watson, from The Cat's 'Songs from the Shows', went down to watch the auditions and asked the creative team and 3 of the auditionees a few questions about the project, the audition process and Oliver!

Legs has a chat with D.K. Harrell, who was in Brazil at the time, and he talks about the release of his debut album.

Legs has a chat with D.K. Harrell, who was in Brazil at the time, and he talks about the release of his debut album.

Steven Collins is the managing director of Greenperks Ltd and he discusses how Greenperks helps their clients to build sustainability into their company values by using an employee engagement tool that allows everyone in the business to have direct impact on their carbon offsetting.

Gary J's co host on the breakfast show was local businessman Leon Broster, the inspiration behind the up and coming Cheshire Business Expo at Crewe Hall on 9th August 2023. Find out more as Leon tells you how to connect

In this weeks Carole in the Community, Carole talks to the resilient kid herself, Ashley Costello, who through her new book, provides tips and tricks as to how make your kids more resilient to the every increasing demands of the modern world.

On this episode, Jordan talks to Gavin Jones, a young man that following his own breakdown, decided to walk the length and breadth of the country to raise awareness of mental health through his own story.

Today Des interviews Dave Christie, business coach and owner of Taking on Goliath; Dave discusses how he helps his clients to streamline their businesses, driving revenue and improving profits.

Legs chats to two of the founding members of the Glasgow blues rock band. They talk about their formation, the recording of their debut album, and their plans for the future.

PJ is in for Gary on the breakfast show today. But This Saturday the 22nd July Morrison’s are holding a Food Drive to Help Food Banks Fill Their Shelves’. Super Hero Nikki Harrison, Morrison’s Nantwich Community Champion will asking for Food Donations on Saturday the 22nd of July 2023. As it is summer and all our Attention's Divert away from donating there are Still Family’s finding it Very Hard. Please Only Help if you Can Please do Not Be Afraid to ask your local Food Bank's for Help. It can be a daunting Ordeal But we are all Hear to Help. Please Contact PJ via e-mail paul.jones@thecat.radio  if you need any help.

Legs chats to the veteran blues artist about his career, and his love of the blues

Legs chats to the well travelled singer, songwriter and guitarist about his career so far, people he's met along the way, and his plans for the future.

Leon Broster, managing director of Cheshire Business Expos, discusses the intricacies of organising a successful business expo.

Eddie joined Kev Watson on "Songs from the Shows #4" to talk about the 50th Anniversary Production of The Rocky Horror Show in which he plays in the part of Eddie. He talks about the show, his role, the participation of the audience and what it is like to tour with the show.

The Rocky Horror Show is touring the UK for the 50th Anniversary and coming to Crewe 10-15th July.