A MAN involved in major fundraising drives in Huddersfield today paid tribute to the generosity of the town.

Former top detective Peter Bottomley has spent five years working with Huddersfield Pennine Rotary Club.

And he and his colleagues have been responsible for raising many thousands of pounds for good causes, at home and abroad.

Their latest venture comes to fruition at 7.30pm tonight, with a charity concert at the Lawrence Batley Theatre.

The concert features the award-winning Lindley Junior School Choir, the Vintage Brass band and local singer and actress Helen Woodhead, plus friends from various dramatic societies around Huddersfield.

The proceeds from the show will go to the Huddersfield Down's Syndrome Support Group, a charity backed by the Rotary club this year.

Mr Bottomley said he was convinced Huddersfield people would again be generous.

"I was struck by an article in the Examiner about fundraising for the victims of the terrible Asian tsunami," he said.

"On the opposite page was an article by Keith Hellawell, former chief constable, an ex-colleague of mine and a friend for almost 60 years.

"When Keith retired as West Yorkshire Chief Constable, he became the Government's drugs tsar.

"When I retired as head of Kirklees CID I decided to fill my time with Pennine Rotary.

"The Rotary movement has more than 1m members worldwide. Over the years it has raised millions of pounds for humanitarian aid at home and abroad.

"Rotary has provided fresh water in Africa, eye care for people in India and aid for people in many parts of Europe.

"But it has also placed a great deal of stress on local needs and I have been honoured to be chairman of the community services committee, responsible for meeting those local needs.

"We have had diverse appeals, ranging from Christmas parties for pensioners to fundraising for guide dogs. We have also helped such groups as Kirkwood Hospice, Macmillan Cancer Relief, the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and the Forget Me Not Trust.

"I never fail to be amazed by the generosity of Huddersfield people. We are all guilty of pigeonholing people because of their appearance. Yet many on the wrong side of the law I came across in 30 years as a policeman are the first to help the under-privileged and give money.

"Rotary can try to raise money, but we cannot without the community. In Huddersfield we have the best."

Tickets for tonight's concert are available on the door.