This week I’ve had a quick catch up with Charlie Lawson, who is well known for his portrayal of Jim McDonald on Coronation Street. I started by asking him how he got into acting.

“I had worked as a hotel groundsman in Galloway for a wee while and then decided that I would either join The Royal Marines, or go to sea. A teacher who had taught me English and drama at school, told me I was nuts and should go to drama school.

"I went to The Guildhall and the rest is history. My first ever role, professionally was in a play in The Edinburgh Festival in 1981."

What have been your fondest memories of working on Coronation Street and what are you doing with yourself now?

“Party! Party! Party! My friendships with Bev, Simon, Sarah Lancashire, Eva Pope, Phill Middlemiss and Peter Armitage. I’m really enjoying “Classic Corrie“.”

“I’m currently working on a documentary about the lack of help for veterans in Northern Ireland, who suffer from PTSD.”

Any advice for our young, Trafford actors?

“If you want get into this profession, stop being obsessed by fame! Most young would-be actors I meet are more interested in being famous than practicing their craft. So, throw all that bad attitude away and go to drama school in London." There are certainly five accredited drama schools you should aim for. There are hundreds around and about Cheshire and most of them are not worth even thinking about! Oh, and it wasn’t meant to be easy. I watch young actors on very popular and celebrated, familiar TV shows and some of them are awful. Get in some theatre work and learn your art.”

When not acting what do you do?

“I’ve been very lucky and kept busy for forty years, but in between jobs I’m a very keen field sports participant over the winter (shooting in particular). I’m a country boy at heart. I ride better than most, but I guess, if I’ve been busy, I like to go on holiday. We love the sunshine! Life’s too short so enjoy it!"

It was lovely to chat to Charlie and I wish him all the very best. To finish this week I’d like to share some nice news with you. I have received a letter from the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, thanking me for my fundraising along with a ‘Point of Light’ certificate.

It is truly an honour to receive such recognition from the Prime Minister and I am very grateful to those who nominated me for such an honour. It is very humbling.