IT’S not often you find yourself turning to Robbie Williams for guidance in life. The pop star from Stoke-on-Trent famously made a bit of a hash of much of his 20s after becoming addicted to drink and drugs.

But in one of his books (I have read them all) he bemoaned the many letters he received from fans who wanted to ‘save him’ from himself.

He asked why people, who were undoubtedly well meaning, did not seem to recognise how strange it was for them to attempt to connect with someone they didn’t really know and would probably never meet.

He suggested if they genuinely wanted to help those in despair they would do better to look closer to home within their own family, friends or wider local community to try and make a difference there.

I was reminded of this following the collapse of Fabrice Muamba.

Inevitably the near-death experience of a young father, played out in front of a live audience, was bound to attract attention.

It was initially uplifting to see people united in compassion for the stricken player but I think perhaps it is time to remember that we do not actually know this man.

It is not that Fabrice does not deserve our good wishes or prayers.

It’s just that if he does then surely so too do all the other men, women or children currently fighting for their lives.

That’s a bit of a big ask so some might argue that he has unwittingly become a figurehead for those people and what’s wrong with that?

Nothing really but I am inclined to agree with one of the weekend columnists who pointed out that it is actually slightly worrying that we should feel the need to congratulate rival fans for chanting his name as doctors tried desperately to save him.

What else would any reasonable person do?

It seems this story has taken on a life of its own but I fear it is rooted more in making us all feel good about ourselves than genuine concern.

So to all those who were touched by the story of Fabrice Muamba I would say, listen to the wisdom of Robbie.

Look around you. There are hospitals, hospices and charities in Worcestershire who I’m sure could benefit greatly from your empathy and compassion.

Why not direct it towards them?