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I can't believe it's almost October. It only seems like 5 minutes since we started the "Summer Season" show at The North Pier (Blackpool). I used to enjoy a leisurely stroll down the pier in the evening sunshine, but now I just get blown down there. It amazes me that people come down there to see a show, but they do. I always go into the Theatre bar after the show to meet the audience. I love chatting with everyone, and meet some really nice people. Everyone comments on how much they have enjoyed the show. I have to say, it's fun to do, and all the cast love doing it.

I missed one show this month due to a prior commitment. This was a cruise ship, which I joined in Talin. If nothing else, this job does help your knowledge of geography. I had a great cabin, and used my time on board to relax and catch up with some films. Then it was straight back to the pier, and then on to a "Civic' do at "Barnsley Metrodome." I did offer to put the Mayor's Gold Chain of Office into one of those bags, and send it off to get some "Cash for Gold!" I thought we could share it, but he wasn't having any of it. When times are hard, you've got to look for opportunities!

I have also recorded an interview with my mate, Johnny Vegas, for a Radio 4 documentry about comedy and the comedians who work in Benidorm. It goes out in November. On that note, I'm away on another cruise ship on Thursday, so I will have to Sky Plus the new series of Benidorm on Friday. This has to be the funniest thing on TV at the moment.

Take care,

Mick

Sad, but Happy Day

I hate going to funerals, I get so upset, especially when the person that has passed away was a close friend. On Friday, it was Neville King's funeral. I have sung his praises before. He was a wonderful man and a great entertainer, not to mention, a close friend.

I was asked to speak at his funeral, but felt that I wouldn't be able to do that, because I was too upset over his death. So I agreed to say a few words and do a bit of comedy for his family and friends at the Village Hall after the service.

The funeral turned out to be a wonderful celebration of his life, with everyone singing old songs and musicians playing his favorite tunes. Johnny Casson told a few stories about Neville, and Bernie Clifton made an emotional speech. Tributes from Ken Dodd, Norman Collier and Jimmy Tarbuck were read out. Neville was then buried in the village cemetery, beneath a beautiful tree.

Everyone then went to the Village Hall, where we could have a drink and talk about our memories of Neville. I then got up and did a short comedy set, which was requested by Neville's wife, Joanie. We all had a good laugh, just as he had wanted.

It was a sad, but wonderful day and a fitting tribute to a fantastic man. I, along with many people, will never forget him.

On a lighter note, I am flying to Italy today to do a show on board The "Legend of The Seas". I then get straight off and fly back to the UK. So I'm doing a cruise that doesn't go anywhere! You know me and my fear of flying, well it would have been better if the plane didn't move, but the ship did!!!!! I'm not that lucky though.

Take care,

Mick