Comedy legend Bob sharing tales of his favourite moments on stage

The 70-year-old, from South Shields, is best known for his long-running role as Dame Dotty in the Customs House pantomime.

But it’s as part of the Laffalang Gang that he’ll be raising funds for the Children’s Heart Unit Fund, based at the Freeman Hospital.

The comedy troupe will perform Bob’s favourite ever sketches at the Westovian Theatre, in Pier Parade, South Shields, on July 22 and 23.

Bob, who first tread the boards at 10-years-old, said: “The buzz while performing and making people laugh is fantastic. I just love it when the audience explodes into laughter. There’s not a better feeling than when people leave the theatre with a smile on their face, having had a good time.”

Laffalang producer, Gareth Hunter added: “This is our 10th Laffalang and we wanted to make it a bit special.

“Bob recently celebrated his 70th birthday and after 60 years in the comedy business we felt a celebration of Bob’s contribution would be a fantastic thing.

“Bob will be regaling us with his jokes and anecdotes about productions he has performed in since his first pantomime at the Westovians in 1976, and we’ll be featuring his favourite Laffalang sketches.

“It is guaranteed to be will be a fantastic night, especially as Bobby Pattinson, another massive North East comedy legend, has agreed to do a spot.”

The show starts at 7pm both nights and is suitable for those aged 14 and over. Tickets cost £11. To book, call 0191 424 7788.