INTERNATIONAL singing star Peter Morrison of Greenock has returned to live in his home town — and is headlining a traditional Scottish variety show for a local charity.

Baritone Peter has performed around the world and hosted many TV series.

But he is delighted to be back home and fundraising again for Medical Aid Society, which cared for his late mum, Rhoda.

He has raised about £45,000 for the society by performing 13 concerts.

In his latest benefit gig next month, Peter will be joined on stage at the Beacon Arts Centre by his daughter, singer/actress Jackie Morrison, singer Alastair McDonald, comedian Eddie Devine, champion accordionist Liam Stewart and the Louise Murray Dancers.

A former lawyer, Peter has been in the front rank of Scottish singers since the 1970s when he made his name in the BBC TV series Songs of Scotland.

He has starred in many television shows recorded in Glasgow, London and around Europe, performed for the Royal Family, including at the Royal Command Performance after the Falklands War, toured Australia and New Zealand and entertained in theatres and on cruise liners.

Now in his 70s and retired from touring, Peter is enjoying watching cruise liners at the Ocean Terminal from his west end home.

He said: “Friends asked me why I was moving back to Greenock from Glasgow, but when they come down here and see the scenery they realise why I wanted to return.

“The views are magnificent, and I love watching the liners going in and out.

“I’ve continued to visit Greenock many times over the years to see family and friends, and I think there is a real feeling of renewal in the area. My wife, Irene, and I are really enjoying living here.” Medical Aid Society chief executive Charles Young said they are very grateful for the money Peter has raised over the years.

Charles said: “The money raised at Peter’s concerts goes to benefit our residents. We have 41 at Bagatelle and 36 at Glenfield.

“In the past we have bought specialised equipment with the concert money, and this time we will use it to help refurbish residents’ rooms.” Peter said he hoped the Inverclyde public would turn out yet again to support the good cause.

He said: “I’m very pleased to have helped raise funds for the society over the years as a way of thanking them for caring for my mum.” Tickets for the 19 September show are available by calling the Beacon on 723723 or through www.beaconartscentre.co.uk