I HAVE had my column Wayne’s World for a while now and I wanted to write this week about what I have tried and still try to do with it.

My column was given to me as a kind of blog about what I am up to with my singing, acting and charity work.

But it was also an opportunity to promote Trafford - my home - and the people in it to help inspire pride in our area.

I was born and bred in Urmston. I live now a stone’s throw from the house I grew up in.

Having travelled Europe and the USA I noted how other places all over the world are very proud of their boroughs.

I want to try and help instil that here and help promote others who take pride in their own part of Trafford.

We live in a fantastic borough where there are so many wonderful people doing amazing things.

There are unsung heroes quietly helping others without any fuss and there are numerous people who go above and beyond to improve our area.

I want to highlight them all in my column and bring them to your attention so we can celebrate them together.

Trafford, like any other borough, has its problems but I’m not a politician and don’t profess to be knowledgeable about such things.

But I do know individuals and groups can and do make a difference.

I’m a big believer in the expression that charity begins at home and Trafford is our home.

The community here has been fantastic in supporting local charities and community groups and I personally couldn’t have raised what I have without the ongoing and tremendous support of local people who always turn up at my events and all the other events I perform at.

I don’t bring politics, controversy or religion to my column, but try to bring some variety and positive stories.

I’m just an individual who strives to improve my own life and help improve the lives of anyone else that I can in any small way.

My philosophy has always been that it is nice to be nice.

What I am trying to say this week really is thank you.

Thank you for supporting me with my music, this column and charity events. Thank you for the awards you have given me.

I don’t do charity to receive rewards but it is very humbling and lovely to be appreciated for what I’m trying to do.

My invitation to Buckingham Palace was an experience I will never forget and I am so grateful that people thought to put my name forward for that and I thank them also.

For as long as I have my column I will do my best to promote our area and bring you stories I hope you will find both interesting and inspiring.

Trafford really is one big family - so why not share all the great things we get up to together!