Wyn Calvin & Tony Jo: Jimmy remembers old friends
Jimmy Cricket has paid fond tributes to two fellow entertainers and friends who sadly passed away recently.
The Northern Irish comic recalled performing alongside the late Wyn Calvin in the 1980s.
Wyn’s death at the age of 96 was announced earlier this week.
“I had the great pleasure of working with the ‘Welsh Prince of Laughter’ in Panto back in 1983 @brumhippodrome,” said Jimmy.
“Sadly now no longer with us, the late Wyn Calvin, (pictured far right in the above photo in his role as Dame).
“R.I.P. old friend!”
Wyn got into showbusiness after World War Two and went on to appear in more than 50 pantomimes, often as Widow Twankey.
He served with the forces’ Entertainments National Service Association and played to troops all across Europe.
Wyn, originally from Narberth in Pembrokeshire, was a founding member of Cardiff’s Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital Charity.
Laurel and Hardy
He was known for his performances in concert halls and repertory theatres.
His career included successful runs on radio as Tommy Trotter, in a show called Welsh Rarebit on BBC Wales.
He also made music hall appearances and shared a stage with legendary comedy duo Laurel and Hardy.
Read more about Wyn on the BBC website here
Jimmy has also paid tribute to Tony Jo, a former member of award-winning comedy band The Grumbleweeds.
Tony (pictured right with Jimmy) died on Sunday 23 January following an 18-month battle with cancer.
Jimmy said: “A bright light went out in Blackpool today with the passing of performer/manager/producer Tony Jo @hrhents.
“Tony spread laughter and happiness everywhere he went.
“He will be sadly missed by his family and many friends in the world of Showbusiness!
“R.I.P. big guy you were the tops!”
Tony was a celebrated after-dinner comedian.
His work meant he rubbed shoulders with sporting legends like George Best, Bobby Charlton, Geoff Hurst and Alan Ball.
Tony was a winner of the After Dinner Speaker of The Year Award three times.
In addition, he wrote for shows including You’ve Been Framed and Stars in Their Eyes.
Read more about Tony on the Blackpool Gazette website here.
Also from this website: Frankie Whittle: From Butlin’s to Blackpool’s Music Hall Tavern