Kaplan Kaye, King Rat of the Grand Order of Water Rats for 2005-06, has telephoned Graham Smith, Consultant Director of the Phoenix Fund, to say that he would like to come to Long Eaton for the Water Rats Charity Variety Show on Saturday 7th October at Trent College.

In an exclusive interview for the Trader, Kaplan Kaye said: "I am really looking forward to my visit to Long Eaton.  It will  give me a chance to not only thank everyone for what they are doing but I also want to visit the site of the theatre and talk to as many people as I can about what's happening.  The Water Rats are very pleased and proud to be helping such a good cause and I'm particularly thrilled that we've got a lot of young people involved in our show.  They, after all, are our hope for the future of showbusiness whether it be amateur or professional.

Kaplan Kaye added: "It is 22 years since my late father Davy was made King, and in fact it is the first time in the history of the Grand Order of Water Rats that a father and son have been given that honour, so I feel very humbled indeed.  Since I became a Water Rat back in 1996 I have been amazed by the camaraderie and friendship shown to me by my fellow Rats.

This Order of ours was set up by a bunch of show business lads, to have a laugh and in doing so raise a few coins to help our own, but also many other people who need our help.  I have been a Trustee of this Order for the past two years and have seen first hand what a great job this Order does in helping many people and I am very proud to be part of that, and follow in the footsteps of a long line of wonderful hard working Kings."

Graham smith told the Trader: "Kaplan is a very generous man and we are honoured that he is giving up so much time in his busy year to be with us.  We look forward to welcoming him to Long Eaton for our very special show"

Picture: King Rat Kaplan Kaye