Interview with Kevin Chesher,Volunteer driver
Eve Venner and Christine Moody Transport Manager
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On 1st April 2004 Christine met with Kevin Chesher, a blind musician, and his volunteer driver Eve Venner from St Austell. Kevin was also accompanied by Alan, his escort and friend.Kevin has been blind from the age of 7 following a road accident. He is now 53 years old and all his life has developed his musical talent. At one time he was a member of a group.
At the beginning of 2004 Kevin was awarded a grant from the Community Champions Fund to enable him to find transport to get to venues for his performances. This grant, and his volunteer driver, have made a significant difference to his life. This funding has also given Kevin independence. Being able to use Cornwall Centre for Volunteers has enabled him to get to his venues more cheaply than using a taxi.
Kevin plays guitar, harmonica and banjo to audiences in care homes, centres for the elderly and other establishments who are delighted to receive his entertainment. His repertoire of “golden oldies” brings a lot of pleasure to many people. His sets usually last about one hour and provide Kevin with much satisfaction entertaining his audiences with confidence.
Kevin described his driver, Eve, as a rare and special person who was a good driver and a person he could share a laugh with. Eve spoke very highly of Kevin’s performances and Alan likened his role to “a day out with a friend”. When his current funding grant runs out, Kevin will seriously consider applying for more. His other activities include raising money for Mount Edgcumbe Hospice and recently he abseiled down Marks and Spencers in Truro.
Kevin, in not letting his blindness be a barrier, is an inspiration to others. Given the opportunity and the resources, his ambitions and dreams can be realised. His aim is to play professionally. Cornwall Centre for Volunteers can be justifiably very proud of the part its Volunteer Car Service has played in helping Kevin pursue his musical ambitions and bringing pleasure to a lot of people.