Speaking
Matthew Collins’ first professional speech was in the 1980s to 500 drunk travel agents at a golf dinner. He didn’t seek the gig. A desperate agent offered him £500 to replace her sick speaker at short notice. Matthew wasn’t up to it but succumbed to financial temptation… And regretted it. After five seconds people started talking. After ten seconds people started booing. And after thirty seconds bread rolls started to rain down on the stage.
He then set about learning how to make a speech. Many ladies luncheon clubs later, he did his second-ever all-male gig for Croydon Heating and Plumbing Society (CHAPS). Matthew survived. The Croydon plumbers even made him an honorary CHAP.
Today Matthew gives frequent speeches – humorous, motivational and educational (in French or English) and teaches the craft of public speaking.
In 2011, his audiences included the Avon, Gloucestershire, and Wiltshire Federations of the Women’s Institute; Luncheon Clubs; Rotary Clubs; Schools and Cruise Ship passengers.
His principal topics are alternative travel and eccentric parenting but he also talks about Shakespeare and France – and other subjects that excite or irritate him. His style is light, humorous and always entertaining. Matthew’s most popular talk title in 2011 was 'BUDGET TRAVEL, BORROWED GRANNIES, TAX-FREE CASH FROM YOUR KIDS AND SHOPPING FOR FREE IN SUPERMARKETS'.
"We needed a really good speaker and got one. Matthew's entertaining way appeals to all ages. Thoroughly recommended."
Pat Clapp, Whittlebury WI - October 2011
"A very engaging, humorous speaker – he helped make our charity dinner a successful event."
Mike Dingley-Jones, President Carmarthen Rotary 2011/12
Click here for more comments about Matthew's talks.
Email Matthew: post@matthewcollins.co.uk | Or ring: 0207 385 0977 for more details
