John Shuttleworth: Raise the Oof

Radio 4 favourite, comedy legend, and ‘the 42nd best reason to love Britain’ (Telegraph) John Shuttleworth, is back with more hilarious stories and songs performed on his trusty Yamaha organ (with built-in auto accompaniment!) In Raise The Oof John celebrates 40 years in showbiz. Yes, it was 1985 when he met TV’s Clarinet Man – next-door neighbour Ken Worthington – who came last on New Faces in 1973 (Tony Hatch crucified him!)

“When I met Ken he was eating a CurlyWurly” recalls John, “although initially I thought it was a packet of sparklers, so I gave him a wide berth”, and the rest, as they say, is hysterical!

“Actually, I feel rather calm” muses John, “although after 40 years and still no chart success, perhaps I should be slightly anxious. My wife Mary says I should get a proper job, but there’s no time – I’m about to retire! Besides, Comet – where I used to demonstrate audio equipment – no longer exists. As for the sweet factory in the Rotherham area where I worked as a security guard in the 1980s – that’s now an Axe Throwing Centre. Oof!”

But he’s posting off his songs (on cassette tape with Dolby so it’s not too hissy) to cutting-edge pop acts like Chris Rea and the Lighthouse Family, plus he’s still being booked for nostalgic singalongs at the local hospice (for petrol money only) so you have every reason to celebrate his long and illustrious career. Do come along and join him in punching the air, and helping – in an orderly and controlled fashion – to Raise The Oof!

‘His stand up is second to none, his timing is impeccable, and you can practically warm your hands on his good nature’
Guardian

‘The Cole Porter of the antimacassar set’
Times

‘A Ludicrously compelling night out’
Evening Standard