Bernard Righton interview
Bernard Righton - who some say looks a bit like actor John Thomson - has been playing the club circuit for years with his politically correct gags. He's now been signed up by TV channel Gold to host a new series of stand-up highlights. We hear from him here...
Hi Bernard. You feature lots of great comedians in 'Legends'. If you could have just two round for dinner, who would you pick?
Tommy Cooper, he was clean. And Larry Grayson. It's always nice to have a representative from the gay community.
Has the comedy circuit changed for better or worse over the last few years?
As far as promoters are concerned, for the better... because they're all venture capitalists. Unfortunately for the average performer, for worse. Wages haven't gone up since 1987.
Some of your peers have been questioned as part of Operation Yewtree. Have you had any calls from the police yourself?
No, but I've had a call from the Yewtree Foundation, which saves yew trees in Chadderton. As an established member of the Woodland Trust, I'd be more than happy to help.
You've worn some very interesting suits over the years. Where do you get your clothes from?
I won't lie. My stage attire is from charity shops but I never buy a suit twice from the same charity shop as I like to spread myself thinly when it comes to charitable donations.
There are lots of comedians who present on TV. Why do you think Gold particularly chose you for this series?
I'm cheap.
What's next for you Bernard?
I'm waiting for the winter solstice, when me and some druid friends will converge on Salisbury for some Tibetan throat singing. Can't wait!
Our local club is looking for an MC for next Saturday night, are you up for it? £50 cash in hand.
As long as there's a Quornish pasty on the rider. And a ylang ylang vapouriser.
'Legends Of Stand-Up & Bernard Righton' is on Gold on Mondays at 10pm.