Entertainer Alex is still 'gigging and gagging'!
A JOVIAL entertainer who started his career in Hucknall at the age of 14 is still "gigging and gagging" and making audiences laugh 15 years later.
And Alex Belfield, who admits he has never done a proper day's work in his life, says he still loves his job as an entertainer, be it on stage or on radio.
Alex's stage-act consists of good-natured comedy and a free-and-easy style of singing to his own piano playing. He says his shows are mainly aimed at those aged 40 and over and "would not embarrass your auntie"!
Alex, who currently writes for and is a good friend of comedy great Ken Dodd, has also been a big hit on radio over the years – on stations such as Capital Gold and Mansfield 103.2FM.
He has also presented shows from New York, Montreal and Nairobi.
"I want people to know that I am still gigging and gagging and touring," said Belfield. "I am available for shows in pubs, clubs and care homes. I can do shows to suit any event. Most of the stuff I do is private events.
"I still love this job. I am like a child in a sweet shop when I get a laugh. I always give it 100%.
"I know my act and who it is aimed at. I have never been paid off or booed off. If you don't like my act, I will give a full refund. And in 15 years, I have never given a refund."
Alex is looking for work in the run-up to what is always a busy Christmas period for entertainers and already has a selection of shows lined up.
But he admits that finding gigs is tougher nowadays because, like any other business, the entertainment world has been hit by the recession.
Alex, who lives in Gedling, said: "I know people who had to give up the entertainment game recently and get a day job because work was drying up. It is a harder and harder business to stay in.
"It's tough. Pubs and clubs are closing. And they would all rather pay for the bingo and the buffet instead of me!"
Alex, who turns 30 next January, first got his taste for showbusiness when he walked on to the stage at The Witness Box, a bar/social club that used to be at Hucknall police station on Watnall Road.
"I was crap," admits Belfield. "But there must have been something about an ugly, fat, ginger kid wobbling in to play the organ.
"They kept booking me and suddenly I am nearly 30 and I am still getting booked.
"I feel very lucky to never have had a proper job. Because of that show at the police station, I never get out of bed before 10 am!
"It gave me a great start and I want to thank people for booking me.
"I have done most places in Hucknall. There are some lovely venues there and long may they continue."
Alex has also interviewed a host of top stars in 40-minute slots for BBC radio.
On his wish list this year are Geordie superstars Ant and Dec, top cook Delia Smith and DJ Chris Evans. He has already interviewed Terry Wogan, Alan Carr, Jamie Oliver, Donny Osmond, Jerry Springer, Katherine Jenkins, Michael Winner, Katie Price (aka Jordan) and Kerry Katona.
To book Belfield, give him a ring on 07879 456403 or e-mail him at alex@alexbelfield.co.uk. Alternatively, visit his website at www.alexbelfield.com.
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Sunday 05 February 2012
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