Rob Scaggs came into the studio to update us on the work of the Chelmsford based charity Chess that works with the homeless. The new Hub building is now near completion and will provide nine overnight bedrooms as well as a central administrative centre. We spoke about the obvious on-going need for the work and Jonty commented that now he commuted to Chelmsford the need for work with homeless people had become very obvious to him. Rob said that if you saw a homeless person in the street, the important action to take was to talk to them. If they were really homeless, they would want to tell their story. He also said that buying a drink and a sandwich was good, but he advised against giving any money. The way to really help someone was to support charities like Chess that can provide ways out of homeless lifestyles. Chess has many ways that support can be provided. Of course they is through financial donations, but there are also numerous different opportunities for volunteering. More information can be found on www.chelmsfordhomeless.org or by phoning 01245 281104.

With the death of American evangelist Billy Graham this week, Rob and I chatted about the amazing influence of Billy on the world. Rob’s wife had been converted at a Billy Graham meeting.

Tonight’s playlist

Moody Blues – Isn’t life strange

For King and Country – Little drummer boy – chosen by Rob. You just have to watch the video. It is nothing like you would expect! Rob said he particularly liked it as he was a drummer.

Behold – Hillsong worship – Rob had seen this sung live at an event in London.

Black Eyed Peas – I’ve got a feeling – chosen simply because it is a feel good song.

Soweto String Quartet – Freedom

Ellie Golding – Vincent – requested by Patrick

Fairport Convention – Adieu, Adieu – requested by Phyl who will be seeing them live very soon.

ABC – When Smokey sings – requested by Chris for Bob and they both danced around the kitchen to it.

Paul Simon – I am a rock – continuing our exploration of the music of Paul Simon, What a song.

The Script – Superheroes – requested by Adrian hoping that the Irish rugby team will be superheroes against Wales.

Joe Jackson – Stepping out – the inspiration for LIsa Harman to write her own song – Stepping out – for her sister, Debbie Spence, who loves the music of Joe Jackson.

Crystals – Da Doo Ron Ron – we all sang along giving thanks for vocalist Barbara Alston, who died today aged 74 years.

Beach Boys – Lady Linda – based on J.S. Bach’s Jesu joy of man’s desiring. Loved by Bob, who saw them twice in concert. I am so jealous!

Harry Chapin – Taxi – for Chris from Bishop Stortford, who is a fan of Harry’s music.

Join me next week, when my guests are from the Brentwood School’s Christian Worker Trust.

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